Geolocating Aeola for Use in Wind Turbine Siting

Abstract

Electrical power generated by wind turbines is determined by the cube of the wind speed. With all other parameters being identical, wind turbines experiencing different wind profiles will generate varying amounts of electricity. Wind profiles change drastically across terrains, therefore not all locations are suitable for wind projects. As such, effective and efficient identification and geolocating of land parcels featuring proper wind resources suitable for wind turbine siting, known as an Aeola, is critical for a wind project’s success. The scope of this research is to identify terrain patterns conducive for the formation of high wind resource levels defined as average annual wind speeds in excess of ten meters per second, known as Aeolas. This research is intended to (1) formally define and discuss Aeolas, (2) locate Aeolas within the contiguous United States, (3) identify terrain patterns controlling formations of the previously located Aeolas, and (4) successfully geolocate an Aeola within Honduras’ Bay Islands using patterns developed based on conterminous United States Aeolas.