Wind characterization for renewable energy applications

Abstract

This project aimed to study and estimate wind characteristics and energy potential of Kuala Terengganu. Data used in this study were collected on site from 2004 to 2007. Wind speed distribution curves were developed using the Weibull and Rayleigh probability density functions. Average Weibull shape parameter and scale parameter were found to be 1.76 and 3.21 m/s, respectively. Yearly mean wind speed in Kuala Terengganu is 2.9 m/s and monsoon season (November to March) mean wind speed is 3.9 m/s. Wind power density is lowest in southwest monsoon season, while it is highest in northeast monsoon season as 84.55 W/m2. Monthly average power density and probability of wind were found as 40.52 W/m2 and 0.50, respectively which exceed cut-in wind speed of 2.5 m/s. Normally more than 10 years of wind data is required to capture climatic variability. Further, in order to get more precise spatial wind map, there must be more presenting points. Therefore, this research may be considered as first step of renewable energy study in the research area.