Abstract
In the Middle East, near-surface wind resources are intermittent. However, high-altitude wind resources are abundant, persistent, and readily available and may provide alternative energy resources in this fossil-fuel-dependent region. Using wind field data from the Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications Version 2 (MERRA-2), this study identifies areas favorable to the deployment of airborne wind energy (AWE) systems in the Middle East and computes the optimal heights at which such systems would best operate. AWE potential is estimated using realistic AWE system specifications and assumptions about deployment scenarios and is compared with the near-surface wind generation potential with respect to diurnal and seasonal variability. The results show the potential utility of AWE in areas in the Middle East where the energy demand is high. In particular, Oman and Saudi Arabia have a high level of the potential power generation with low annual variability.
Highlights
In the Middle East, near-surface wind resources are intermittent
This study contributes to the evaluation of airborne wind energy (AWE) in the Middle East by identifying areas favorable for AWE system (AWES) deployment; analyzing the diurnal and seasonal variability of airborne wind resources; determining a range of optimal altitudes for AWES deployment; and estimating AWE generation potential compared with near-surface wind generation potential
The analysis of AWE in the Middle East begins by studying the vertical characteristics of horizontal wind in the boundary layer relevant to AWE
Summary
In the Middle East, near-surface wind resources are intermittent. high-altitude wind resources are abundant, persistent, and readily available and may provide alternative energy resources in this fossil-fuel-dependent region. The renewable energy sector creates jobs that require technical expertise that is currently being cultivated in the younger generations of the local workforce, leading to a sustainable and knowledge-based economy[3] These factors, coupled with the recent drop in oil prices, have incentivized wind power harvesting in the Middle East. A recent survey of near-surface wind resources showed that there are some areas with high and persistent winds in the Middle East[4]. This study contributes to the evaluation of AWE in the Middle East by identifying areas favorable for AWE system (AWES) deployment; analyzing the diurnal and seasonal variability of airborne wind resources; determining a range of optimal altitudes for AWES deployment; and estimating AWE generation potential compared with near-surface wind generation potential. Further downscaling studies and measurement campaigns, which are beyond the scope of this article should be conducted on site for siting purposes
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