Leading-edge erosion (LEE) is the erosion of wind turbine blades by raindrops, hailstones, or any other substance that may come in contact with the leading edge of the turbine blade. LEE will cause lost power generation, reduced availability, and will cost the manufacturer or wind farm owner significantly in inspection, maintenance, and repairing. LEE has been found to increase drag by 6-500%, reducing the Annual Energy Production (AEP) by 3-25% depending on the severity of LEE.
The Modified Leading Edge can act as an erosion shield, protecting the primary blade structure from damages due to foreign objects and erosion.