Energy and economic performance of small wind energy systems under different climatic conditions of South Africa

Several studies have established the abundance of the wind resources in South Africa, which can position the country as a leader in wind power generation continentally if the resource is well harnessed. In acknowledging this, the government proposed 8.4 GW new-build installed wind capacity by 2030. While a significant percentage of the proposed capacity is to be realised from the large scale utility wind turbines, there was further recommendation for contribution from off-grid small wind technology. Presently, this off-grid technology is still at infancy in the country. Although public support policy programs have been recommended to promote the mass uptake of this technology, it is highly important to evaluate and provide information on the energy productivity of these technologies and the economics involved for informed policy development and successful application of such programs. This study specifically examines the energy productivity and economic viability of small-scale wind energy systems in different locations and regions of South Africa, as inefficiency and the low energy yield are some of the main reasons identified for the low growth of the technology.