On the optimized design of next-generation wind farms

•The wind farm design is a complex problem with large-size models, stochasticity, non-linearities and complex constraints.•We used mathematical models and advanced heuristic methods in a synergic way.•We solved the problem of optimally locate turbines and the one of optimally connect them through electrical cables.•We modeled the problem as it arises in practical applications and presented results on real cases.•We show that Operations Research can make a huge economic impact, thus in providing cheaper renewable energy to the market.