Microgeneración de energía eólica en un entorno boscoso en Costa Rica: estudio de caso

This work aims to describe a case study on the installation and energy assessment of a micro wind turbine as a renewable energy alternative. The system consisted of a horizontal axis wind turbine, five blades, and 3 kW. It was installed 18 meters above ground level in a forested area. A micro coffee producer was selected, and the theoretical energy generation at the site area was estimated. Subsequently, the turbine was installed, and its energy production is measured. A weather station was also installed to record the average monthly wind speed. During the eight months that the study was conducted, it was obtained 225,76 kWh. According to theoretical models, it meant 37,75% less energy of the expected 598 kWh. It is concluded that the 3 kW wind turbine rated wind speed does not match the actual wind speed in the specific location. In addition, the prediction of the wind resource could be improved with on-site measurements.