A Statistical Approach to Estimate the Wind Speed Distribution: The Case of Gelibolu Region

Abstract

Wind energy is renewable and environment friendly. It is an alternative clear energy source compared to the fossil fuels that pollute the lower layer of atmosphere. The most important parameter of the wind energy is the wind speed. Statistical methods are useful for estimating wind speed because it is a random phenomena. For this reason, wind speed probabilities can be estimated by using probability distributions. An accurate determination of probability distribution for wind speed values is very important in evaluating wind speed energy potential of a region. In this study, first, we tried to determine appropriate theoretical pdf (probability density function) by comparing 10 pdf for the wind speed data measured for Gelibolu region. In determining proper pdf , an approach consisting of 3 goodness of fit tests and fitted graphics have been used.