Wind Power Prediction Website

Problem: Global warming, caused by energy production, is a big environmental concern. Wind power is one of the options being developed to reduce the effects of this. However, energy production by this means is dependent on weather conditions and difficult to predict.

PowerPredict, a spin-out from the Rutherford Appleton Laboratories (RAL) Energy Research Unit at Harwell, Oxfordshire, is utilizing energy prediction software for wind farms developed at RAL. The software will improve the management of generating assets and reduce our carbon footprint by allowing the accurate scheduling of stand-by, fossil fuel generation capacity. The software is founded on over 8 years of research and has been proven in use since 2003 at EirGrid, the Irish national grid operator. The challenge is to offer this software as a web service making it available for grid operators and energy traders while being maintained and upgraded centrally by the PowerPredict team.

Solution: A first step was to produce a proof of concept solution which could be used to raise awareness of PowerPredict throughout the industry and prove the project’s feasibility.

DSoFt Solutions has experience of working on collaborative projects across Europe. DSoFt‘s staff are experts at helping customers and end users define and record their project requirements making DSoFt the obvious choice to partner on this project.

DSoFt has been able to work with Power Predict to define a solid specification taking into consideration the project priorities e.g. overall appearance within the Power Predict company style; ease of use; reliability; information security.

The selection of software tools and operating environments was an important aspect of the project and DSoFt staff have been able to use their wide expertise in the software industry to offer a range of options and recommendations.

By delivering the project in phases DSoFt staff have been able to get useful feedback from Power Predict and implement changes as the project proceeds. This flexible approach has been effective in delivering a project which not only meets the specification but the customer is truly happy with.

"DSoFt’s professionalism, positive response to change requests and prompt delivery of an excellent product has made the relationship a hassle free experience.”

William Tall – CEO

Benefits:

DSoFt staff were able to quickly understand the requirements of the project and utilize their wide range of experience to design a solution meeting Power Predicts priorities of appearance; ease of use; reliability; and information security.

A flexible and pro-active approach was used effectively throughout the project. DSoFt staff became an integral part of the development team suggesting improvements and resolving development issues throughout the project life cycle. DSoFt staff responded quickly to requests and kept excellent track of software revisions and project status.

"Working with DSoFt has been very effective. Their quick comprehension of the projects purpose and grasp of the system overview has allowed them to bring added value to the project. They would undoubtedly be my first choice for future projects."

Ian Tracey – Director

The success of this project has put Power Predict in an excellent position to demonstrate their capabilities and seek further investment funding.