Wind Energy Suitability Mapping
Definition
Wind energy suitability mapping evaluates locations for turbine development by combining wind resource, terrain, grid proximity, environmental constraints, noise and setback rules, and land ownership. Outputs score parcels or cells and often include exclusion masks for sensitive areas.
Application
Developers focus leasing and studies; regulators streamline permitting; communities assess benefits and tradeoffs; and financiers gauge project risk.
FAQ
How do you handle hub-height wind versus surface observations?
Use mesoscale models, mast measurements, or lidar to estimate wind at hub heights; adjust for shear using stability-aware profiles.
What spacing and wake considerations matter?
Row and column spacing minimizes wake losses; terrain and prevailing winds influence optimal layouts—model wakes in suitability, not just resource.
How should constraints be prioritized?
Apply hard exclusions first (safety, critical habitat), then weight soft constraints (visual impact) with stakeholder input.
What equity elements can be included?
Community benefit zones, local ownership options, and job access indicators enhance fairness alongside technical feasibility.
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