Small Wind Example: If you were looking to install a small wind turbine, you would reference the 30 meter map (about 98.4 feet above the surface) for your location. When siting a wind turbine, finding a strong resource to place it in is one of the key factors to a financially successful project. If you find that wind is not suitable at your location, do not fret, consider some alternatives!.If you find that your site has a feasible resource, see our FAQs for further considerations.This does not mean they are impossible,īut it does mean your motivation must be more than financial for the Wind projects in areas with low wind speedsĪre generally not profitable. Most utility scale wind turbines in PA (to date) have been sited in locations with wind speeds of at least 14.5 mph (6.5 m/s), although sites with wind speeds of 12 mph to 14 mph may be viable under certain conditions with the use of newer technologies. It is typically recommended that a small wind turbine be placed in a 10 mph (4.5 m/s) or greater annual average wind speed. Wind speeds vary throughout the day and throughout the year, so the maps provide a summary that can help you to characterize the resource at your site.
Understanding your wind energy resource is critical to developing a successful project. Equal Opportunity, Harassment and Non-Discrimination.School of Health Sciences and Education.