Abstract The criteria as well as the methods and measurements of wind tunnel simulation on wind effects on air-cooled condensers in a power plant were discussed. The parameter of re-circulation was suggested to describe the wind effects on the efficiency of the condenser. The result of practical project models shows that great wind effects of both wind speed and the angle of the incident flow on the efficiency of the condenser. It is recommended that in the initial stage of a new or an extension power plant, which is equipped with an air-cooled system, the wind tunnel simulation is necessary and helpful. Combined with the local wind climate data, a more reasonable, economic and safety schematic design of a power plant could be achieved.