GT2014-26243 SMALL-SCALE WIND TURBINES OPTIMIZED FOR CLASS 2 WIND: A WIND SITING SURVEY AND ANNUAL ENERGY PRODUCTION ANALYSIS

A crucial step in evaluating a potential location for a wind turbine, especially small-scale wind turbines, is a proper wind site survey. Eventually the wind site survey is used to calculate the annual energy production (AEP) of the wind turbine and determine if this location will be profitable. Generally, a wind classification of 3 or above is recommended for any wind turbine site, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Wind Classes of 1-2 are not considered suitable; however, data suggests that a wind site with Class of 2 wind has the potential to be more cost effective than even the least expensive offshore wind and deserves consideration. Wind data usually exists at locations such as local airports; however, the height at which this data are taken is not representative of the heights at which wind turbines will be installed and thus, airport wind dat