Wind Energy: Renewable Energy and the Environment, 3rd Edition

9   Siting

The crucial factor in siting a wind turbine or wind farm (also called wind park or wind plant) is the annual energy production and how the value of the energy produced compares to other sources of energy. Data from meteorological stations worldwide are are of little use when predicting wind power potential and expected energy production from wind turbines.

9.1   SMALL WIND TURBINES

For small wind turbines, a measuring program may cost more than the turbine; therefore, other types of information are needed. Many countries are developing wind maps to aid development of wind farms. These maps can be used as guides to determine regions that have enough wind for small wind turbines. Also, wind maps for countries and large regions obtained ...