Abstract:
Wind energy conversion at potential sites would be an alternative
solution for the existing energy crisis. In recen: years, there has been growing
interest in utilizing wind electric power conversion systems to provide some of the
electricity demand on large scale. This study is carried out to investigate the
feasibility of wind energy extraction systems for electric power generation in Sri
Lanka. Wind data collected by Ceylon Electricity Board(CEB), at eight sites of
southern Sri Lanka are analyzed. One of the objectives is to carry out an analysis
on the available wind speed data at measured heights to evaluate surface roughness
exponent and thereby estimate the probable speec at a height of 30m, which is the
selected hub height of the wind turbine and the parameter Mean Annual Wind
Speed. Annual energy extraction and plant factors at selected eight sites are
calculated for a 300kW horizontal axis stall regulated wind turbine.
