Assessment of wind-generation potentiality in Jordan using the site effectiveness approach

Abstract

Wind data gathered over 3–10 years is used for a feasibility analysis of optimum future utilization of wind-generator potentiality in 22 sites covering all landscape types and regions in Jordan. The yearly mean wind speed and the yearly average available wind energy flux were computed for each site. Yearly mean wind speeds at a height of 24 m could reach as high as 7.6 m/s and available wind energy flux close to 3 MWh/m 2/year could be attained. Detailed technical assessment for the nine most promising potential wind sites was made using the site effectiveness approach. The maximum site effectiveness and its corresponding cut-in speed were indicated, both of which depended on the site. The investigation was performed assuming three models of small and medium size wind machines representing different ranges of characteristic speeds and rated power suitable for water pumping and electric supply. The results show that small and medium wind turbines could be installed in the highlands and desert regions and utilized for water supply and electrical power generation, provided the correct wind machine-site is selected.