Mesoscale/Microscale modelling for evaluation of wind energy potential and cost energy in developing country using a high-resolution grid: A case study in the northeastern region of Thailand

Abstract

Abstract The high demand for electricity during the pandemic has increased electricity prices. Awareness of power generation from renewable sources has become a global commitment to improve environmental issues due to greenhouse gas emissions. Wind resource maps for the center of the northeastern region of Thailand are presented in this research. Wind energy potential maps were obtained by mesoscale (MC2) and microscale (Ms-Micro) wind flow modelling. The simulation results were validated using observations from the wind mast installed in the research area. Indicated that the mean wind speed at an elevation of 120 m (AGL) varies in range from 1.52 to 3.62 m/s, 2.49 to 3.29 m/s, and 2.26 to 3.42 m/s for Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham and Roi Et site, respectively. The wind power estimation revealed that the Maha Salakham site could produce the largest energy of 17,804.16 MWh/year, in accordance with a capacity factor of approximately 21% and an LCOE value about 0.21 USD/kWh. Nevertheless, the information on wind potential, as displayed in this research, must be additionally considered for the monitoring and estimation of the performance of other types of wind turbines, the impact on the environment, and social acceptance in further research.