The next generation of wind assessment hardware may be tower-less. Several studies have shown that SOund Detection And Ranging (SODAR) is an effective way to assess a wind resource at today’s turbine heights. It is quickly becoming the preferred choice of assessment among prospective wind developers. In fact, a recent study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory shows that data collected by the Triton is equally valid as data collected from tradition met towers. Take a look at the study here.

SODAR systems, unlike conventional meteorological towers, use sound rather than radio waves for measurement. 60-100 meter met towers record data through loggers and sensors mounted on the tower while SODAR utilizes remote communications such as satellites to receive and report data. Although the SODAR system is only about 2 meters high, it can measure wind by sending sonic beams up into the atmosphere, producing audible “chirps” that listen for return “echos” or signals. By precisely measuring the time delay and frequency of the chirp’s echo, SODAR can accurately measure wind speeds at heights up to 200 meters.

National Wind Assessments owns Triton Sonic Wind Profilers that you can rent and deploy for various projects. Find out today if the Triton will work for your project.

Key Benefits of the Triton:

• Greatest Data Capture Height. The Triton can collect wind data up to 200 meters - the height of today’s tallest turbines in the marketplace. The Triton has received excellent performance reviews in its ability to collect accurate data that matches with traditional met tower performance.
• Low Power Consumption. The Triton uses only 7 watts of power during constant use, increasing efficiency and lowering operational costs. It has one of the lowest power-drawing CPU’s in the marketplace today. Because it operates using two solar panels, it can go unattended for long periods of time.
• Fast and Easy Deployment. The Triton can be installed and operating within a two hour time frame.
• Industry’s Leading Remote System. Many Tritons are in operation today across the world.
• Cost Effective. Due to its ease of installation and low maintenance requirements, the Triton can substantially reduce overall prices for wind data gathering.
• Near Real-Time Data Monitoring. Data monitoring is connected to a SkyServe satellite that provides ten-minute averages instantly over a secure web interface.

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