A Study of Foundation Design for Wind Turbines in Hasanbeyli, Turkey

Abstract

Utilization of wind energy as an alternative energy source has been growing in Turkey due to limited fuels and environmental pollution. An integrated site investigation is crucial as the wind turbines are subjected to strong static and dynamic loads. This study presents a geological, geotechnical, and geophysical investigation of the Hasanbeyli wind turbine area in Turkey. Results of the laboratory tests and field exploration (borehole, pressuremeter, seismic refraction, point load, unconfined compression) were analyzed to develop geotechnical engineering recommendations and a generalized framework for foundation design and construction of wind turbines.