CFD analysis of wind potential in a district in Gijón

Building sector represents one the highest percentages in global energy consumption. The current financial situation in Europe, and especially in Spain, is encouraging companies of this sector to study solutions to decrease this percentage. In addition, neighborhoods and cities are promoting smart buildings with nearly zero consumption in consonance with the European climate and energy policies for 2020 (the 20-20-20 targets). The savings provided by the use of renewable energy resources can be analyzed with the help of ICT and numerical simulation. In this paper a numerical analysis of the wind potential of a new district in the city of Gijón (“Nuevo Roces” neighborhood) is studied. A numerical model of this district is developed by using CFD techniques and experimental data of the direction and speed of the wind. The best locations for the different wind generators are studied. Results allow the selection of technological solutions taking into account the environmental impact, the selection of the best locations for these technologies.