Technical and economic analysis of large-scale wind energy conversion systems in Algeria

In this study, the wind energy potential and economic analysis in 13 locations are investigated using wind speed data measured at 10 m height. From the collected data which are the daily, monthly and frequency profiles of the wind speed at these sites, the southern region of Algeria is found to have the relatively highest wind potential. Technical and economic evaluations of electricity generation from different commercial wind turbines are examined. The yearly energy output, capacity factor and electrical energy cost of kWh produced by the selected wind turbines are calculated. In term of energy production, the results show that Adrar is the best location for harnessing the wind power and generating electricity. The capacity factors are found to vary from 6% at Skikda to 48% at Adrar. In addition, it was found that the minimum cost per kWh of electricity generated is about 0.0179 $/kWh at Adrar for the southern region, 0.0431 $/kWh at Oran for the coastal region and 0.0518 $/kWh at Setif for the highland region. Among all the considered models, the Suzlon S82-1500 wind turbine is found to be the most attractive in terms of cost per kWh. Based on the obtained results, the wind resource appears to be suitable for power production in the southern region, which makes it a viable substitute to diesel oil for electricity generation. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.