Wind turbine nacelle testing: State-of-the-art and development trends

Wind turbine nacelles are complex machines that are designed to operate under extreme loads and harsh environments. Extensive tests are performed throughout their development process to ensure that they can operate with high reliability. As both onshore and offshore wind turbine systems have rapidly evolved, so have the methods for testing the nacelle systems and subsystems. This paper presents the state of the art in wind turbine nacelle testing and the development trends in this field. It discusses the existing test requirements for certification and the different levels of testing that form part of a nacelle system’s development. The latest changes to the nacelle certification requirements are highlighted, along with several important research activities related to drivetrain testing. Future challenges for nacelle testing are identified and their potential solutions are proposed. [Display omitted] •The state of the art of nacelle system and subsystem testing are described.•The current industrial approach on nacelle testing during the development process is discussed.•Advances made in nacelle system testing and certification relevant tests are described.•Major challenges in nacelle testing of modern wind turbines are highlighted.•Solutions to tackle some of the identified challenges in nacelle testing are suggested.