Evaluation of the cost of producing wind-generated electricity in Chad

Marcel Hamda Soulouknga,Serge Yamigno Doka,Sunday Olayinka Oyedepo,Timoleon Crépin Kofane

doi:10.1007/s40095-019-00335-y

Abstract

This paper presents an economic analysis of the electricity produced by different types of wind turbines selected for Chad. Thus, the data considered for the analysis in this study are the average monthly wind speeds at selected locations, as well as the altitude value. Statistical analysis was performed using the Weibull distribution. The same energy factor allowed determining the Weibull parameters. The results obtained show that the average annual wind speed varies from 1 m/s in Am-Timan to 4.2 m/s in N'Djamena, at a height of 10 m from the ground. Weibull statistical parameters (k and c) were determined at 10, 30, 50, and 70 m. These were obtained by extrapolation using a power law based on Weibull parameters. Three models of wind turbines available on the market were used in this study: Bonus 300 kW/33, Bonus 1 MW/54, and Vestas 2 MW/V80. The performance of these wind turbines was evaluated using the calculation of the capacity factor and the annual energy produced by each type of wind turbine at 12 sites. The PVC (present value) method was used to perform an economic analysis. The lowest cost of wind power generation was obtained with the Vestas 2 MW/V80 model, with a cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of approximately $143.08/kWh/year in Moundou and 132343$89/kWh/year in Am-Timan. Therefore, it is recommended the use of a Vestas 2 MW/80 wind turbine in Chad.

Highlights

The possibility of exploiting renewable energies for electricity generation has been considered by different researchers across the globe because of the negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment
Comprehensive estimation of the electrical energy generated and cost per kilowatt-hour of electrical energy generated by three different types of wind turbines at selected locations in Chad are carried out
The maximum wind speed occurs in the month of March, while the least speed occurs in the months of August, September, and October

Summary

Introduction

The possibility of exploiting renewable energies for electricity generation has been considered by different researchers across the globe because of the negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment. Great technological progress has been made to reduce the cost of producing wind-generated electricity [1]. The turbine is free of fossil fuel energy and, does not cause an environmental pollution when generating electricity [2]. It can produce wind power near load centers, eliminating transmission loss in rural and urban landscape lines [3]. It is important to study and carefully understand the energy model to ensure a good standard of living and to alleviate poverty [4, 5]

Methods

Results

Conclusion