| Abstrakt: |
Integrating renewable energy sources into the power system is essential for rapid and cost-effective decarbonization. This study evaluates the potential of a wind farm by analyzing three turbine models – VESTAS, GAMESA, and W2E – with power capacities from 2.5 MW to 8 MW. The analysis focuses on Region III, characterized by wind speeds below 7.5 m/s. Using the RETScreen model, the study identifies an optimized wind-rated power (OWRP) that balances financial viability, technical performance, and capacity factors. Monte Carlo simulations and sensitivity analyses assess financial indicators such as the levelized cost of energy, net present value, and equity payback period. The framework also considers greenhouse gas (GHG) credits. Results show that turbines with 4.5 MW power, rotor diameters of 105–128 m, and hub heights of 150 m are the most feasible. The project would reduce annual CO2 emissions by 187,097 tons and avoid 82,031 tons of fossil fuel consumption, equivalent to 17,559 hectares of forest CO2 absorption or 190,915 people cutting energy use by 20%. Without GHG credits, the equity payback period is 6.2 years; with a €50/tCO2 credit, it drops to 2.7 years. These findings offer policymakers in Albania and similar low-wind regions a guide to meeting 2050 energy and climate targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
