Investigation of Wind energy potential in Zanjan province, Iran

The present study aims to investigate the possibility of using wind energy in some regions of Zanjan province. The current research concentrates on computing the wind energy potential and wind power density. Furthermore, some features related to wind for two locations in Zanjan province have been obtained. Feasibility study of wind energy utilization and computing of wind power density and wind power potential has been widely (Extensivelycomprehensively) conducted for Zanjan province. First, two locations in Zanjan province have been considered to analyze the data at a reasonable level of province and to avoid over-focusing on one area. Thereafter, the statistics about wind speed were achieved from the Renewable Energy Organization of Iran in ten-minute intervals and included wind speeds at the heights of 30,10, and 40 m and wind directions at heights of 30 and 37.5 m. Finally, various wind features have been investigated for given locations in Zanjan province. The results demonstrate that the annual wind speed for Soltanieh and Tarom in the height of 40 m were 4.81 m/s and 3.93 m / s, respectively. The highest value U_me and U_mp is calculated, It was observed at a height of 40 m at Soltanie, It is 11.35 m / s and 1.27 m / s, respectively. Also, the performance of several wind turbines in the mentioned areas has been investigated. Finally, a suitable wind turbine has been identified.