Metrology considerations in a fast emerging new energy sector

The wind energy sector is emerging on the global energy scene as a fast new energy sector. In 2002 the globally installed wind energy capacity passed 32GW, corresponding to 0,4% of worlds electricity supply. The last five years the sector increased in installed capacity by 33% per year. A leading market consulting company forecasts a global installed capacity of 83GW by 2007 and predicts an installed capacity of 176GW in 2012. EWEA/Greenpeace predicts 134GW by 2008 and a penetration of 12% of electricity demand in 2020. In newer times the development of wind energy started in the 70'ies. At the start of an actual market, approval of wind turbines was required on the basis of a public subsidy, and this developed later into requirements of certification. With the technology, measurement procedures were developed to meet the demands. In the 80'ies national and international recommendations were developed. The process of harmonization of procedures started in the late 80'ies, and this lead to the development of international standards within IEC in the 90'ies. Today, the wind energy sector is well established with an international IEC certification standard and attached standards for design and loads, and measurements. Measurement institutes are organized in the MEASNET network and arrange regular conformity testing.