Wind Energy in Latvia – Mismatch between the Potential and Reality

Abstract

The process of wind energy development in Latvia, from conception to realization and operation, has been studied. It was concluded that in Latvia, both on the offshore and onshore, there is a great potential for wind energy due to favourable climatic conditions. During the research, the main obstacles, and risks for the development of wind energy were identified. Furthermore, the expected benefits for the Latvian economy were evaluated through a systematic analysis conducted. By performing modelling in the Energy Pro program, the amount of real electricity production of a wind power plant (WPP) in the Ventspils region was assessed. This evaluation considered not only the potential electricity generation based on climatic conditions, such as wind speed and direction, but also the anticipated operational limitations identified during the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process (impact on local wildlife and habitats). The amount of capital investment and operating costs required for the WPP, as well as the payback time, considering the price of electricity, have also been calculated. Based on the analysis of the Latvian wind energy industry and the WPP projects, proposals have been made for organizing the development of the wind energy industry in the territory of Latvia.

Keywords

• electricity production
• renewable energy
• wind farm in latvia
• wind