Sustainable Electric Propulsion Drive and Wind Turbine Technologies

Dear Colleagues,

Electrical machines and drives are now increasingly important as they are used more and more in electric mobility and renewable energy. Their efficiency is vastly superior to combustion engines, and it seems that little can be done to improve them. However, with the use of new materials, higher efficiency and an increased power/weight ratio can be obtained. Modern electrical machines should have the following characteristics: reliable, cheap, efficient, and lightweight. Of course, power electronic converters and control strategies are now critical to obtain a high-performance electric drive. The synergy between the electrical machine and the power converter is the key to obtain a high-performance electrical drive.

The development of modern wind turbines plays a crucial role in advancing sustainability by harnessing renewable energy sources. However, to truly achieve sustainability in wind energy, it is essential to address various societal challenges associated with their operation and design.

Wind turbines generate excessive noise that adversely affects nearby communities, impacting residents’ quality of life and health. Developing quieter turbines is crucial to mitigate noise issues and ensure sustainable wind energy projects.

Flying animal mortality due to wind turbines is a critical issue for sustainable wind energy. Avian radar technology and proper turbine placement can minimize harm to wildlife and support wind energy sustainability.

Small wind turbines in urban areas exhibit high costs, limited adoption, and lower energy production due to turbulent winds and limited space. To overcome these issues, small wind turbine design and manufacturing processes need to be improved to reduce costs and increase efficiency. Small wind turbines in urban areas can negatively impact residents visually, affecting their willingness to accept and use them.

To address this, turbines can be designed to blend into the urban landscape or integrate into existing structures. Innovations in blade design and materials can reduce visual disturbances, making turbines more aesthetically pleasing and socially acceptable in urban environments. To ensure a sustainable future, we must address challenges related to wind turbines such as noise, wildlife impacts, cost, efficiency, visual impact, and aesthetics. Overcoming these obstacles will help wind energy remain a reliable and eco-friendly source of power.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following: electric mobility (small and heavy vehicles) on road, rail, or water, small or large wind power plants, etc. Aspects related to mathematical modeling, optimization, numerical methods, and experimental validation are sought to be presented.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Stefan Breban
Guest Editor

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• electrical machines and drives
• electric mobility
• wind turbines
• optimization
• control
• power converters