Determination of the Weibull parameters and wind power potential: A case of Okorobo-Ile town, Rivers state, Nigeria

Abstract

In this study, we investigate the potential of wind power and subsequently determine the Weibull parameters of a rural community (Okorobo-Ile town, in Andoni local government area of Rivers State, Nigeria) using four years of real-time measured data (2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023). The Weibull shape and scale factors are crucial parameters in modeling wind energy systems or hybrid systems involving wind turbines. The computed scale factor and an optimized (adjusted) shape factor from the two-parameter Weibull model used in this study showed a good fit with the actual measured data, which was captured at a height of 10 m. The average annual power density, power generated, and energy for the region are 81.07 W/m², 0.41 MW, and 3557.79 MWh, respectively. Based on these values, the potential of the energy in the wind at Okorobo-Ile town can be said to be marginal and belongs to wind power class 2. The site is considered appropriate for small to medium-scale power generation from the wind. Analysis of five wind turbine models indicates that the Siemens SWT-2.3–101 turbine is the most appropriate, with an average annual energy contribution (58.55 %). The Vestas V90–3.0 MW and Enercon E-82 E4 also show good performance with average annual energy contributions of 46.48 % and 38.59 % respectively. These turbines can collectively meet and exceed the community’s daily energy demand of 656 kWh, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source that supports economic growth and energy independence for the region.