Wind energy systems for electric utilities: a synthesis of value studies

Since 1975, a substantial amount of research has been completed related to the impact of wind energy conversion systems (WECS) on electric utilities. Eight major studies have estimated the value of wind systems - the amount the utility could afford to pay for wind turbines with no cost or reliability penalties. However, each of these studies was completed at different times, reflected different economic assumptions, and reported results in different base-year dollars. The result is that while these reports contain a substantial amount of useful information, their results are difficult to compare and interpret directly. This report describes briefly the basic value analysis methodology as it exists today, identifies unresolved issues, and normalizes and interprets the results from value analysis studies that have been completed since 1979.