The distribution and potential utilizablity of Zimbabwe's wind energy resource

The analysis of the wind energy resource is presented in the form of mean wind speed distribution for representative stations of the country. The national cumulative frequency curve also helps to give further insight. Wind energy potential exist in most parts of Zimbabwe for wind pumping and other mechanical conversion systems, with utilizable wind speeds ranging from 2.6 m/s to about 4 m/s. Generally most parts of the country have a good wind energy resource averaging 3.2 m/s all year round, good enough for wind pumping except areas around Kariba. Areas around Bulawayo and some pockets in the Eastern Highlands have potential for power generation application since the most prevalent wind speeds range from 4 to 6 m/s. These wind speed ranges have a high frequency and time distributions to give satisfactory power generation resumes. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.