Wind characteristics observation using Doppler-SODAR for wind energy applications

Abstract

This paper presents an application of Doppler SODAR (Sound Detection and Ranging) system for the assessment of wind characteristics at an onshore site in Tamil Nadu, India. The wind speed is statistically analyzed by means of Weibull distribution function and results were used to compute several characteristics parameters related to wind energy applications and no significant discrepancies were observed. The characteristics of wind shear coefficient were evaluated for different altitudes. The vertical profile of wind speed measured from SODAR system was compared with existing models. Furthermore, the turbulence characteristics were analyzed and compared along with the turbulence intensity. From the economic point of view the SODAR system was found to be cost-effective at higher heights. The results of this study are expected to provide useful information for the deployment of remote sensing instruments for wind energy development in India.