SITE CONSIDERATIONS:
 

This is a list of things to consider when selecting sites for installing wind monitoring devices and wind generators. Site selection will depend on a number of factors including the general terrain and wind flow characteristics of an area and the proximity to the location of intended use.

For more detailed information, check the references listed below.
 

Considerations:

  1. Wind Characteristics: Ideal sites are generally located in areas with good exposure to the prevailing wind, away from structures, terrain or vegetation that might alter the wind or introduce excessive turbulence. For wind measurement, sites that represent a wide area are ideal in order to estimate the wind resource over as wide an area as possible. Vegetation will often show signs of "flagging" if wind is present in sufficient amounts.

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  2. Proximity to End Use: The costs associated with wind energy grow with increased distance to where the energy might be used. A windy site close to transmission lines or close to a pumping location might be most appropriate.

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  3. Terrain and Land Use: Consider the amount of land available, how this land is currently used, it?s proximity to other uses such as roads, houses, towns or parks. Avoid potential problems by considering your neighbors and the public in this process.

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  4. Site Accessibility: To install a monitoring tower or a wind turbine and to provide routine maintenance it will be necessary to get equipment to the site. Accessibility may be important. It may also be useful to have cell phone coverage at the site to obtain help with maintenance issues that might arise.

For more detailed information, the following documents may be of help

A Siting Handbook for Small Wind Energy Conversion Systems. H. Wegley, J. Ramsdell, M.Orgill and R. Drake, Report No. PNL-2521 Rev. 1, 1980: available from National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port royal Rd., Springfield, VA. 22151.
 
 

Recommended Practice for the Siting of Wind Energy Conversion Systems. American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), AWEA Standard 8.2 - 1993: available from AWEA, 122 C Street N.W., Washington, DC 20002. (www.awea.org)
 
 

Also, check the links section of this web site.