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Updated: May 30, 2025
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Exploring the Effects of Atmospheric Forcings on Evaporation: Experimental Integration of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer and Shallow Subsurface
Published on: June 8, 2015
8.7K
A robust reduction in near-surface wind speed after volcanic eruptions: Implications for wind energy generation
Cheng Shen1, Zhi-Bo Li1,2, Fei Liu3
1Regional Climate Group, Department of Earth Sciences, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden.
Innovation (Cambridge (Mass.))
|January 28, 2025
Summary
Major volcanic eruptions consistently reduce global near-surface wind speeds (NSWS) for two years by weakening air descent. This finding has implications for wind energy potential following large atmospheric aerosol injections.
Area of Science:
- Atmospheric Science
- Climate Science
- Renewable Energy
Background:
- Near-surface wind speed (NSWS) is crucial for wind energy generation.
- The impact of volcanic eruptions on NSWS has not been previously explored.
- Natural and anthropogenic factors influence NSWS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of major historical volcanic eruptions on global NSWS.
- To quantify the reduction in NSWS and wind power density following eruptions.
- To understand the atmospheric mechanisms driving these changes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized climate model simulations covering the last millennium.
- Analyzed data from 10 major historical volcanic eruptions.
- Examined changes in subtropical descending air and downward momentum flux.
Main Results:
- A consistent 2-year global NSWS reduction was observed after 10 major eruptions.
- NSWS decreased by approximately two inter-annual standard deviations (AD 851–1849).
- The 1815 Tambora eruption caused a ~9.2% reduction in global wind power density over two years.
Conclusions:
- Volcanic aerosol forcing weakens subtropical descending air, reducing NSWS.
- This research establishes a theoretical basis for understanding NSWS changes after aerosol injections.
- Highlights potential risks to wind energy from volcanic eruptions, nuclear warfare, and climate intervention.
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