Wind-Power Development: A Critical Analysis of Sustainable Energy System for Educational Community

This study investigates the potential of harnessing wind resource for generation of electricity in a University community to improve power supply for research purposes and technological innovations. The research method and materials include wind data mining, design and development of prototype wind-power system to harness wind resource for improved power system. Wind velocities at different times and various heights in the study area were captured using anemometer. Statistical technique was deployed during this study for critical analysis. Results show that useful electricity can be generated from wind resource within the University community. The study outcomes, further show that wind-power generation improves with increase in height of the wind turbine system. Findings indicate that on Day 1, wind velocities of 1.2m/s in the morning and 3.8m/s in the afternoon were obtained at the height of 2m. Whereas, at the height of 10m, the wind velocities of 3.0m/s in the morning and 4.0m/s in the afternoon were obtained. Natural vegetations, tall buildings and some economic trees affect smooth flow of air and reduces the wind velocity especially at the lower turbine height. Based on the findings, a wind turbine system should be sited in areas that are free from natural vegetation and encumbrances. A minimum wind turbine height of 10m is however, proposed for improved wind-power generation in the study area. In general, wind velocity, height and area of the turbine rotor blade play significant role in the power generation performance.