Wind Flow Simulation Over a Hilly Terrain for Wind Energy Harvesting

Abstract

To optimize the wind energy harvesting in the hilly terrain, the wind flow simulation was carried out over two-dimensional hilly ridgelines using a CFD tool namely Ansys Fluent. Eight hill Models with different leeward slopes (Vertical: Horizontal) from 1:1 to 1:8 were created for case studies of wind flow analysis over them. These were analyzed using turbulence k- ε model with standard wall function. It was observed under this study that the leeward terrain had high turbulence kinetic energy zone and there was a loss of wind energy. The velocity vectors and velocity contours of wind flow were used to identify separation zones and wind pattern. The occurrence of the backflow for a wind speed 10 m/sec was found on the lee slope having more than a critical slope 1:7. The turbulence effect on wind flow is more near to the ridge top which reduces downward from the hill top. The results were compatibility of observations taken at Banihal top (Jammu and Kashmir) of the Himalayan region. The study is useful for the optimal location of the wind turbine and to understand the wind flow pattern in the hilly region