Wind Energy Density in Nigeria as Estimated From the ERA Interim Reanalysed Data Set

Abstract

Inadequate power generation from hydro and fossil fuel electrical power stations in Nigeria demands seeking additional sources of power generation. This study focuses on wind source with the aim to determine suitable locations for commercial wind farms. Using reanalysed wind speeds data from European Reanalysis project (ERA interim), wind speeds at the turbine height of 70 m have been estimated for 39 stations over Nigeria. Because local surface features of each station have strong effect on wind speeds, profile of wind has been estimated by taking into account the surface albedo, cloud cover and atmospheric stability functions. By using the two - parameter Weibull function, this study has delineated area (stations) characterised by persistent wind flows adequate for commercial electrical power generation. Calculated usable electrical output from General Electric 1.5xle type turbine in the identified potential areas ranges between 2.5 and 11.3 MW in southern station of Lagos, whereas in the northern windy stations usable electrical power ranges between 4.79 and 11.04 MW.