Electricity generation using wind energy conversion systems in the area of Western Greece

Weibull parameters estimated by three different methods at four weather stations in the area of central Western Greece were used to estimate wind power potential in this area. A linear correlation was observed between the above mentioned parameters and the measured mean wind speed values. Additionally, analysis of the "unit energy cost", being the specific cost per kilowatt hour, obtained for several wind turbines at different hub heights has been conducted for every station. Our analysis demonstrated that it is possible to profit from electricity generation in Missolonghi and Aktio, especially if larger wind turbines are to be used. The specific cost per kW h decreases as wind turbine size increases for comparable systems made by the same manufacturer with similar performance but with different rated power (size). The observed correlation between these parameters is hyperbolic with the greater decreasing rate in the less windy sites. Moreover, the cost per kilowatt hour increases with hub height due to the increasing tower cost. (C) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.