Wind Energy Potential Assessment as Power Generation Source in Ubonratchathani Province,Thailand

Abstract

In this paper, the hourly measured wind speed data for years 2008–2010 at 10 m, 30 m and 40 m height for Ubonratchathani province in kingdom of Thailand have been statically analyzed to determine the potential of wind power generation. Weibull distribution parameters have been estimated and compared annually and on monthly bases using two methods; the graphical method and the another method, designated in this paper as approximated method, which depends on the standard deviation and average wind speed. The average annual wind power density was found to be 19.13 W/m² for 10 m height, 83.14 W/m² for 30 m height and 91.45 W/m² for 40 m height. Weibull probability function, using Weibull parameters estimated from the approximated method, has shown to provide more accurate prediction of average wind speed and average power density than the graphical method. In addition, the monthly and annual variations of capacity factors have been studied to ensure optimum selection of wind turbine generators.