From fossil-dependent energy to a clean, non-polluting energy: Wind farms in Maluti-A-Phofung municipality, South Africa

Abstract

ABSTRACT In South Africa, the consumption of coal for electricity is at the top of the charts for coal consumption in Africa. The continued usage of non-renewable energy sources accounts for ∼50% of the total greenhouse gas accumulation in the atmosphere globally. This study, therefore, aims to identify suitable sites for wind farms within the Maluti-A-Phofung municipality. Data for this study was sourced from climate stations within the MAP and the extant literature for standards and regulations. The Weibull function and ArcGIS 10.6 were used to establish a suitable site for wind farms within the MAP. The results from the study suggested that wind speed and direction in MAP municipality experienced variations but with a steady-state over time. However, based on criteria from other factors the MAP municipality should opt for micro-generators, that is, individual wind turbines per household for clean energy supply.