Performance evaluation of small wind turbines for off grid applications in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The study evaluated the energy output and plant capacity factor (PCF) of small wind turbines in the category of 1–3kW, 5–10kW, 15–20kW and 50–80kW rated powers. Furthermore, the effect of hub height on energy output and the PCF has been studied to recommend suitable hub height for different type of applications and load requirements. To achieve the set objectives, hourly average wind speed data measured at 10, 20, 30, and 40m and wind direction at 30 and 40m above ground level during July 01, 2006 to July 10, 2008 has been utilized. Highest percentage change in annual energy yield (AEY) was obtained for an increase in hub height of 10m from 20 to 30m for both horizontal and vertical wind turbines chosen in the present study. The next best AEY was obtained while increasing hub height from 10 to 15m. Horizontal axis wind turbines Fortis Passat with PCF of 44.4% at 15m hub height, Aeolos-H 5kW with PCF of 20% at 20m hub height, and CF6e with PCF of 32.5% at 20m hub height are recommended for different load requirements. Similarly, vertical axis wind turbines UGE Vision 2kW with PCF of 8.9% at 15m hub height, Aeolos-V-2 5kW with PCF of 20.6% at 20m hub height, and UGE-9M 10kW with PCF of 14.2% at 30m hub height are also recommended for various ranges of loads. Horizontal axis wind turbines were found generally more efficient than the vertical axis wind turbines in the present case.