Optimization of turbine hub height and economic assessment of wind energy potential in Nigeria

High wind energy costs due to suboptimal siting have limited wind power development in Nigeria. This study assesses the economic implications of siting wind turbines in major Nigerian cities, focusing on Optimal Hub Height (OHH). Four IEC III low-wind turbines were evaluated across seven sites using 10 years (2013–2022) of wind speed data from NIMET at 10 m. OHH was determined using TOPSIS and AHP methods. Wind speeds were extrapolated to OHH and compared to turbine cut-in speeds. Wind Energy Density (WED), turbine output, capacity factor, and Cost of Energy (COE) were estimated. OHH ranged from 46 to 89 m, with EWT-DW61-22 turbine best suited for multiple locations. Ikeja had the highest power output and lowest COE ($1.056/kWh), while Iseyin had the least favorable metrics. All sites exceeded Nigeria’s average COE. The study recommends ongoing investment in wind energy to enhance affordability, support clean energy goals, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy mix.