Wind: Origin and Local Effects

Abstract

It is important to understand the origin of wind and the factors affecting the wind availability on any site before it is possible to appreciate the construction and performance of wind energy systems. Available wind data is usually aggregated over time, and it has a strong variability within. Extreme care is to be taken in connection with natural or artificial obstructions in wind flow that reduce the wind velocity or produce turbulence. These concepts are useful for identifying appropriate sites for an installation, as well as for estimating the power output at a location. Principles of spacing between adjacent machines are to be followed when installing multiple wind turbines in a wind park.