Wind data modeling and energy mapping of the wind potential in the city of Douala (Cameroun)

Abstract

This work helps in the implementation of wind energy projects in the city of Douala. Wind data used (speed and direction) were collected from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2020, at a height of 10m. The use of wind speed distribution laws allowed us to obtain predictions of the available wind energy on-site at different altitudes. Then, the wind direction is established for the orientation of the wind turbines and the turbulence analysis is done to highlight the exploitable wind periods. The results show that harnessing wind energy is possible on site from 10 AM to 06 PM. The wind potential at 138 m height has an average speed of 8.15 m/s for an overall energy density of 749.78 W/m2 for roughness class 0, and an average speed of 3.7 m/s for an overall energy density of 69.118 W/m2 for roughness class 4. The wind turbines will be installed in front of the north-north-east direction between 15 and 25°. Finally, the energy mapping of the city's wind resources allows us to estimate the total energy available at a reference height.