Local Breeze Effects on the Wind Energy Generation in the Northern Coast of Cuba

Abstract

This paper analyzes the effects of local sea-breeze circulation on power generation in a coastal wind farm in northern Cuba. This farm provided wind-generated power data during April-August 2008, which were combined with data from an exploratory meteorological tower located at a nearby coastal location. We analyze hourly data of land breeze and sea breeze separately, dividing these data sets also in first-class and second-class breezes. The breeze effects are quantified by the relation of the daily evolution of electricity generation and the breeze regimes. The results show a better coastal-wind resource usability under first-class breeze conditions, especially during meteorological synoptic conditions associated with an anticyclonic circulation and strong pressure gradient. A better maintenance planning for the wind farm by taking in consideration these breeze effects would contribute to a greater usable local-wind resource.