Databases Reference
In-Depth Information
Case study 1: Sensor data
This is a case study provided by IBM and adapted to this topic. In this case study we see how Vestas
uses Big Data processing techniques using the BigInsights and Hadoop platforms for harnessing cli-
mate data to predict the most optimal use of wind energy to its customers.
Summary
The challenge with the processing of data from around the world to track wind movement and
weather to predict optimal use of turbines to harness energy was a challenge to Vestas. Processing
large volumes of data constantly was not a feasible exercise on incumbent platforms and methodolo-
gies. This is when they turned to using Hadoop and the IBM BigInsights solution stack, to create a
Big Data platform and leverage the processing techniques that made the entire requirements from data
volume and complexity nearly disappear or rather become a very manageable challenge. As you read
this case study look carefully at how the business case and the ROI were aligned in the entire exercise.
Vestas
Turning climate into capital with Big Data.
Overview
Vestas wants to pinpoint the optimal location for wind turbines to maximize power generation and
reduce energy costs. Precise placement of a wind turbine can affect its performance and its useful
life. For Vestas, the world's largest wind energy company, gaining new business depends on respond-
ing quickly and delivering business value. To succeed, Vestas uses one of the largest supercomput-
ers worldwide along with a new Big Data modeling solution to slice weeks from data processing
times and support ten times the amount of data for more accurate turbine placement decisions.
Improved precision provides Vestas customers with greater business case certainty, quicker results,
and increased predictability and reliability in wind power generation.
For centuries, sailors have seen how fickle the wind can be. It ebbs and flows like the tide and
can allow ships to travel great distances or remain becalmed at sea. But despite the wind's capri-
cious nature, new advances in science and technology enable energy producers to transform the wind
into a reliable and steadfast energy source—one that many believe will help alleviate the problems of
the world's soaring energy consumption. Lars Christian Christensen, vice president of Vestas Wind
System A/S, states:
Wind energy is one of today's most important renewable energy sources. Fossil fuels will eventually
run out. Wind is renewable, predictable, clean, and commercially viable. By 2020 as much as 10%
of the world's electricity consumption will be satisfied by wind energy, and we believe that wind
power is an industry that will be on par with oil and gas.
Producing electricity from wind
Making wind a reliable energy source depends greatly on the placement of the wind turbines used to
produce electricity. The windiest location may not generate the best output and revenue for energy
