An assessment of Wind Power Potential in Osmaniye, Turkey

In this study, wind energy potential as a result of the distribution of wind speed is studied in urban area of Osmaniye where is on the east of the Mediterranean in Turkey. Weibull and Rayleigh distribution methods which mostly used for this type of wind energy studies are investigated. As a result of this, approximate wind potential energy is obtained which gives an idea of the region is suitable or not for related investments. Wind data is taken from Osmaniye Meteorological Directorate (City Center Station) consist of wind speed, direction and flow time at an altitude of 10 meters, one year time period between May 2009 and April 2010. To determine the Weibull parameters, graphical method is used hence k=1.16, c= 1.76 m/s, averaged wind speed 2.26 (m/s) and averaged wind potential energy 26.579 W/m 2 are found.