Diurnal variations in wind power density analysis for optimal wind energy integration in different Indian sites

Abstract

Wind power is becoming increasingly crucial in the global transition to sustainable energy systems. It is rare to find studies based on diurnal variation of wind energy potential for different sites. Seasonal patterns could lead to overestimating the night-time and underestimating the daytime wind power density (WPD), resulting in load losses and higher generation costs. Present study includes Diurnal variations in WPD, that will estimate energy generation patterns more accurately. Current analysis uses hourly wind speed data collected from IMD for six coastal Indian sites spanning 1969–2007. Seasonal, monthly, and diurnal variations at 30 m and 60 m hub heights are analyzed using Weibull distribution model. The peak diurnal WPD of 714.53 W/m2 is observed in Tuticorin during July at 60 m hub height, and the lowest is found during December. The results show substantial differences between day and night WPD, emphasizing the importance of accounting for diurnal wind speed fluctuations. This study can be helpful for the proper sizing of energy storage systems to ensure uninterrupted energy supply throughout the day and night, installing hybrid energy storage systems. It can also help designing hybrid energy systems for power generation, reducing operational costs and environmental impacts.