Sensitivity Analysis of the WRF Model: Wind-Resource Assessment for Complex Terrain

AbstractWind energy requires accurate forecasts for adequate integration into the electric grid system. In addition, global atmospheric models are not able to simulate local winds in complex terrain, where wind farms are sometimes placed. For this reason, the use of mesoscale models is vital for estimating wind speed at wind turbine hub height. In this regard, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model allows a user to apply different initial and boundary conditions as well as physical parameterizations. In this research, a sensitivity analysis of several physical schemes and initial and boundary conditions was performed for the Alaiz mountain range in the northern Iberian Peninsula, where several wind farms are located. Model performance was evaluated under various atmospheric stabilities and wind speeds. For validation purposes, a mast with anemometers installed at 40, 78, 90, and 118 m above ground level was used. The results indicate that performance of the Global Forecast System analysis and Eu...

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