Estimating the potential of wind energy resources using Weibull parameters: A case study of the coastline region of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Abstract

This study aimed to compare the graphical method (GM) and standard deviation method (SDM), based on analyses and efficient Weibull parameters by estimating future wind energy potential in the coastline region of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Hence, the conclusion from the numerical method comparisons will also determine suitable wind turbines that are cost-effective for the study location. The wind speed data for this study were collected by the Tanzania Meteorological Authority Dar es Salaam station over the period of 2017 to 2019. The two numerical methods introduced in this study were both found to be appropriate for Weibull distribution parameter estimation in the study area. However, the SDM gave a higher value of the Weibull parameter estimation than the GM. Furthermore, the five selected commercial wind turbine models that were simulated in terms of performance were based on a capacity factor using the SDM and were both over 25% the recommended capacity factor value. The Polaris P50-500 commercial wind turbine is recommend as a suitable wind turbine to be installed in the study area due to its maximum annual capacity factor value over 3 years.

Keywords

• weibull parameters
• numerical methods
• wind energy potential
• statistical analysis