Strategic analysis of wind energy potential and optimal turbine selection in Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia

Wind power is considered one of the most environmentally friendly and rapidly growing form of renewable energy. This study aims at assessment of wind power potential for Al-Jouf region in Saudi Arabia. A long term historical wind speed data of 21 years (2000-2021) was analytically modeled using Weibull distribution function to determine the wind characteristics. The Weibull parameters and average wind speed for monthly and yearly were evaluated using MATLAB program. An online wind power calculator developed by Meteotest was used to evaluate the wind energy by selecting various turbines. Six types of commercial wind turbines of 3 MW capacity were selected for wind power assessment to optimize the turbine selection. Our analysis showed that average wind speed varies between 3.88 m/s and 4.99 m/s and an overall average wind speed is 4.38 m/s. The most frequent wind speed observed was 3.9 m/s with a probability of 20 % approximately. The Weibull distribution parameters, shape parameter "k" values ranged between 1.89 and 2.21 with an average of 1.98 and scale factor "c" values varied between 4.41 and 5.66 m/s with a mean value of 4.86 m/s. Performance evaluations of selected wind turbine models reveal that the Vestas V126 turbine outperforms others at the Al-Jouf site, generating an annual energy yield of 3779400 kWh at a capacity factor of 14.4 %. These results suggest that by constructing a wind farm consisting of 100 V126 turbines may compensate for the energy needs of 46000 individuals. These findings establish Al-Jouf as a viable location for utility-scale wind power projects, offering valuable insights for turbine manufacturers, developers, operators, and policymakers interested in deploying large-capacity turbines in the region. The method used in this study for wind power analysis and turbine selection is simple and helpful to provide an initial assessment about the site suitability and turbine selection without undergoing exhaustive efforts.