Wind Energy Scenario in Mustang ( Research First Time in Nepal)

Mustang District is one of the favourite tourist destination of Nepal. So the demand of electricity for this region is very high. People in this area still depend upon traditional energy resources; such as firewood kerosene and other petroleum products to fulfill the energy demand except in some potential places where solar and micro hydropower in use for the lightning purposes. In this context it should be noted that Mustang is one of the high wind energy potential areas of Nepal.

Based on the wind data of Mustang district collected by AEPC, the wind velocity at hub height of 20 m was recorded as 75 m/s at maximum. This is the highest wind velocity recorded at any place in Nepal till date. According to the SWERA (Solar and Wind Energy Resource Assessment in Nepal) report prepared by AEPC, the annual average wind power density (WPD) of Mustang District is 332 watt/m2. Wind power density less than or equal to 100 Watt/m2 are not useful for wind energy harnessing. WPD greater than 200 Watt/m2 are normally taken for consideration for non grid connected power generation while greater than 300 Watt/m2 are considered as grid connectivity wind energy in developing countries. The analysis shows area above 300 Watt/m2 composed of 30 sq km and with 5 MW installed per sq km, yields 150 MW.

Wind-Turbine in Mustang
Wind-Turbine in Mustang

These areas have been calculated on a conservative basis so that the exploitable area for wind energy can be increased by covering greater area from the national grid and especially analyzed in specific areas with greater wind energy potential.

Studies have shown that there is high potential for wind power generation in the Mustang district, small wind turbine systems of 1500 watt could be easily installed to electrify the area without long-term data. Wind Power System would help in conservation of environment and forest by reducing carbon emissions thereby making the area pollution free. Wind energy can be used to provide electricity for the people and Mustang would be a model village that uses sustainable power generation through wind energy.

(Source : http://www.energy.keckist.edu.np)