Wind Power Density in Southern Iraq: A Comparative Study of Coastal, Port and Inland Sites

This study provides a comprehensive spatiotemporal assessment of Wind Power Density (WPD) in southern Iraq’s coastal zone using high-resolution meteorological data (January 2020–December 2022). Wind resources were analyzed at Al-Faw Grand Port, Umm Qasr, and Basrah International Airport at 10 m and 50 m elevations. Results demonstrate a significant coastal-inland gradient; annual mean WPD at 10 m decreased from 139.3 W m⁻² (Al-Faw) to 55.6 W m⁻² (Basrah). Extrapolating to 50 m enhanced WPD by factors of 1.7–2.9×, with Al-Faw reaching 236.9 W m⁻². According to NREL standards, all sites remain Class 1 at 10 m, though Al-Faw approaches the Class 2 threshold (243 W m⁻²), with an annual mean = 236.9 W m⁻² (Class 1). Seasonal analysis identifies summer (June–August) as the peak period, driven by Shamal wind events, where WPD exceeds 300 W m⁻² at 50 m, aligning with peak electricity demand. However, high temporal variability indicates significant intermittency. While current resources are insufficient for standalone commercial wind farms, the findings suggest strong potential for hybrid systems or seasonal supplemental generation. This research establishes a critical multi-height baseline for renewable energy policy and investment in Iraq.