Energies, Vol. 18, Pages 6558: A Review of Meteorological Hazards on Wind Turbines Performance: Part 1 Lightning, Icing, and Rain

Energies, Vol. 18, Pages 6558: A Review of Meteorological Hazards on Wind Turbines Performance: Part 1 Lightning, Icing, and Rain

Energies doi: 10.3390/en18246558

Authors:
Xiao-Hang Wang
Chong-Shen Khor
Kok-Hoe Wong
Jing-Hong Ng
Shabudin Mat
Wen-Tong Chong

Wind power is a major source of renewable energy, yet turbine performance is strongly influenced by atmospheric conditions and surrounding terrain. Several meteorological phenomena can hinder energy production, disrupt operations, and accelerate structural deterioration. This paper reviews three key atmospheric hazards affecting wind turbine systems: lightning, icing, and rain. For each phenomenon, the formation mechanisms, operational effects, and mitigation approaches are examined, with offshore-specific processes and conditions integrated directly into each hazard discussion. Building on this foundation, the review then analyses interactions between the hazards, their combined implications for turbine performance and maintenance, and the associated economic impacts. Comparisons of material behaviour across lightning, icing, and rain-erosion conditions are also incorporated. Finally, future research directions are proposed.