Optimizing the Power Generation of a Wind Farm in Low Wind Speed Regions

Abstract

The aim of this research is to optimize the power generation of a wind farm (WF) in order to maximize the energy output, especially in low wind speeds regions such as UAE. A new WF was proposed to be built in Sir Bani Yas Island in the UAE. This project was chosen to act as the main case configuration for this research. Four configuration parameters were proposed and assessed as follows: (1) inserting smaller turbines between the original larger main turbines; (2) changing the spacing between the turbines; (3) substituting new higher efficiency turbines in place of the existing ones; (4) moving the WFs to completely new locations in different emirates within the UAE. Through using the WindFarm simulation software, the impact of these four strategies was analyzed and calculated. The main finding of this research indicates that introducing more efficient WT units has a great impact in that it can increase output by 24.5%. Bearing in mind that the UAE has a vision for a renewable energy, as well as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, this paper will draw a novel recommendation to optimize the wind power generation in this low-speed region.