Assessment of Wind Energy Potential for the Generation of Power in Coastal and Sahel Savannah Locations in Nigeria

Ogolo Emmanuel Omonigho,Apata John Olu,Ojo Olusola Samuel

doi:10.11648/j.jeece.20190404.12

Ogolo Emmanuel Omonigho, Apata John Olu + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.11648/j.jeece.20190404.12

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Abstract

This study examines the wind power potential for different pressure heights in some Coastal and Sahel savannah stations in Nigeria. A 5-year hourly mean wind speed data at different heights and also at the hour of 00:00 and 12:00 were obtained from ERA Interim reanalysed data set. The data were statistically analyzed using Weibull distribution function. It was found out that Ikeja and Katsina stations have the maximum wind power density of 174.69 W/m<sup>2</sup> and 196.88 W/m<sup>2</sup> for both Coastal and Sahel savannah regions respectively at 100 m height and also at 12:00 hour of the day when there is occurrence of intensive wind speed as observed in the stations considered. Therefore, the analysis demonstrates the economic feasibility of using wind energy as a means of electricity supply at Ikeja in Coastal region and Katsina in Sahel savannah region of Nigeria. Thus, the wind power potential in these areas should be adequately harnessed which could be used to compliment the present power supply and reduce carbon dioxide emissions which contribute to global warming and lower long-term overdependence on fossil fuels in those areas and in Nigeria at large.

Highlights

Energy has a major impact on every aspect of our socioeconomic life
The wind power density (W/m2) which is the quantitative measure of the wind energy available at any location was estimated from the equation (1) in terms of Weibull parameter ([13])
Based on the analysis the following conclusion can be made: Wind speed was high in Ikeja and Katsina stations for both Coastal and Sahel savannah regions respectively especially at 100 m height

Summary

Introduction

Energy has a major impact on every aspect of our socioeconomic life. It plays a vital role in the economic, social and political development of our nation [1]. Over 60% of the Nigerian population does not have power supply, with 40% not on the nation’s grid [2]. The majority of the electricity supply in Nigeria is generated by Kainji dam which produces about 3.2 x 108 W and 9.6 x 108 W at its peak [4]. This is due to underperforming hydro dams in the country. The concern about global warming and continued apprehensions about nuclear power around the world should drive us into strong demand for wind generation according to [5])

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