Experimental Modeling of Wind Resources for Electricity Generation in the Ningo-Prampram Region of Ghana

Abstract

Wind energy, as a renewable energy source, plays a critical role in achieving the world's energy transition goals. This study assesses the wind resource characteristics and potential for wind power production in the Ningo-Prampram District of Ghana. On-site wind measurements were conducted using an air flow anemometer at various reference points within the study area. The collected site data were statistically validated against existing satellite data using T-test analysis, which revealed no significant difference between the ground and satellite measurements (p > 0.05), despite observed changes in weather patterns. The results showed that the mean wind speed in the area ranged between 4 and 5.6 m/s at a height of 10 m, with a predominant wind direction from the East. The district exhibited a moderate turbulence intensity of 0.226, indicating fairly good suitability for wind power projects. A feasibility analysis determined that the study area, covering 142.03 km², has the potential to accommodate a 40 MW wind farm using 20 Enercon-82-E2 wind turbines (2 MW each) with an 80 m hub height. This installation could reduce Ghana's Wind Utility Scale total target for 2030 by 25.256%. These findings suggest that the Ningo-Prampram District possesses favorable conditions for sustainable wind power development.