Feasibility of wind energy applications in Bahrain

An assessment of the potential and economical feasibility of wind application as a renewable source of energy in Bahrain is presented. The analysis is based on long term measurements of wind speeds at the Bahrain International Airport in Muharraq. The economical evaluation takes into consideration the interest recovery factor, the life time of the wind energy conversion system (WECS), the investment rate, the depreciation and the cost of maintenance. These factors are presented in the form of two convenient charts which provide fast evaluation of the economic feasibility of WECS. Using these charts indicates that the generation cost of electricity using a small WECS compares favorably with the current cost of electricity in Bahrain.