Linear models for farm-scale windmill performance prediction

Abstract

One of the problems which arise when considering windpower for farm use is the estimation of the size of windmill required to meet given water-lifting or aerogeneration duties. This problem is particularly difficult when only limited information on the wind regime is available. Typically a rough estimate of the longterm average wind speed may be available, without the wind-speed frequency distribution or frequency of calms. In the absence of more precise information, the linear wind-speed frequency distribution outlined here can be used. Linear torque-speed characteristics of the wind turbine and load can also be used.