Assessment of Wind Characteristics and Wind Potential Energy Yield in the Jordanian Southern Region

Abstract

This study presents investigation and assessment of wind characteristics and wind energy potential for four sites at the Jordanian southern region (Hareer, Ma'an, Aqaba and Fujaij). Based on the available measured data sources, the data were analyzed using hourly and mean monthly WS (wind speed) data at different heights, using a two-parameter probability distribution of Weibull function. The recognized monthly and yearly Weibull functions were considered for the second analysis step. The wind potential energy yields assessment for an ideal capable wind turbine was implemented. Finally, for energy yield estimation, a wind turbine from Vestas with a 660 kW rated power was chosen. The wind turbine characteristics: AF (availability factor), CF (capacity factor) and wind turbine efficiency (η), were defined and calculated for each site. The result of the analysis showed that, all sites have good wind energy potential, the Hareer site at Tafila has the best wind resources.