Wind Power as an Electrical Energy Source in Illinois

Abstract

Using 3 h wind data (1970?74) from nine first-order NWS stations in and around Illinois, monthly frequency histograms of wind speeds for each station, and for each half-day (0700?1800 and 1900?0600 LST) were constructed. The histogram class interval was 2 mph. To assess the wind power for electrical power generation, the mean speed for each class was adjusted from the speed at the anemometer height to 20 m by means of a logarithmic relationship. The wind analysis showed that the maximum potential for wind-generated electricity in Illinois is found from Chicago to Springfield to north of St. Louis. Over 60% of all 3 h winds are ≥8 mph (3.6 m s?1) within that band, whereas values are <55% to the northwest and ?40% to the southeast within Illinois. January?April are the months with the strongest winds. During winter, nighttime speeds are ?75% of those during the day, whereas in summer they are ?50%. Annual wind-generated electric power was calculated for each site based on the published specifications for a commercially available 1.8 kW generator and the wind climatology. From 50 to 55% of a residential electrical demand could be produced by the wind within the maximum potential area of the state, whereas only 25?30% could be wind-generated in the area with the least potential. Cost payback estimates are presented for each of the sites with various purchase and installation costs and assumed inflation rates.