In the heart of Ghana’s Ningo‐Prampram District, a groundbreaking study led by Johannes Ami, a researcher from the Department of Chemical and Petrochemical Engineering at the University of Mines and Technology in Tarkwa, Western Region, Ghana, has uncovered a treasure trove of wind energy potential. The findings, recently published in ‘Energy Science & Engineering’ (Energy Science and Engineering), could significantly reshape Ghana’s energy landscape and serve as a blueprint for wind power development across the region.
Ami and his team embarked on a meticulous journey, conducting on-site wind measurements using advanced air flow anemometers at various points within the district. The data collected was then rigorously validated against existing satellite data using T‐test analysis. The results were striking: despite fluctuations in weather patterns, there was no significant difference between the ground and satellite measurements, affirming the reliability of the data.
The study revealed that the mean wind speed in the area ranges between 4 and 5.6 meters per second at a height of 10 meters, with winds predominantly blowing from the east. This consistent wind pattern, combined with a moderate turbulence intensity of 0.226, indicates that the district is well-suited for wind power projects. “The turbulence intensity is a critical factor in determining the feasibility of a wind farm,” Ami explained. “A lower turbulence intensity means less wear and tear on the turbines, leading to more efficient and cost-effective energy production.”
The feasibility analysis conducted by the team suggests that the 142.03 square kilometers of the study area could accommodate a 40 MW wind farm. This would involve installing 20 Enercon‐82‐E2 wind turbines, each with a capacity of 2 MW and an 80-meter hub height. Such an installation could reduce Ghana’s Wind Utility Scale total target for 2030 by a substantial 25.256%.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For Ghana, it represents a significant step towards achieving its renewable energy goals and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. For the broader energy sector, it underscores the importance of detailed, site-specific wind resource assessments in identifying viable locations for wind power development. As Ami noted, “This study not only highlights the potential of the Ningo‐Prampram District but also provides a methodology that can be replicated in other regions to harness the full potential of wind energy.”
The findings could spur investment in wind energy infrastructure, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in the region. Moreover, the successful integration of wind power into Ghana’s energy mix could serve as a model for other African countries seeking to transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.
As the world continues to grapple with climate change and the urgent need for energy transition, studies like Ami’s offer a beacon of hope. They demonstrate that with the right tools, data, and analysis, we can unlock the power of nature to create a more sustainable future. The Ningo‐Prampram District may well become a poster child for wind energy development in Africa, inspiring similar initiatives across the continent.
