Preparation of wind speed maps of Balikesir province and examination in terms of wind energy potential

Abstract

One of the most important needs such as shelter, food and health services in human life is energy. Today, considering the point where technology has come, energy is needed almost everywhere in life. Countries perform research in order to meet their energy needs and they make investments in this direction. Energy sources consist of two main components as non-renewable and renewable. The harmful gases emitted by the non-renewable energy sources and the need for reserves have directed the countries to renewable energy sources. Renewable energy sources, including solar and wind energy, are more environmentally friendly and sustainable than non-renewable sources. In this study, wind speed maps of Balikesir province were produced at a height of 50 and 80 meters. Environmental plan data were used to identify areas that are not suitable for wind power generation and forbidden areas. Five-year data of 32 meteorology stations obtained from Turkish State Meteorological Service were used in the production of wind speed maps. Total areas with a speed of 6m/s and over in Balikesir province were calculated according to particular speed ranges. In addition, the lowest, average and highest wind speed values of the districts were also revealed. As a result, it was determined that there is a suitable area of 1114.80 km(2) for a height of 50 meters and 3289.92 km(2) for a height of 80 meters above the speed of 6m/s, which is expressed as the economic efficiency limit.