In the vast landscape of China’s energy sector, wind power has emerged as a critical player in the country’s quest for a greener future. However, the persistent issue of wind curtailment—where available wind power goes unused—has been a thorn in the side of this transition. A recent study led by Cunbin Li, from the School of Economics and Management at North China Electric Power University in Beijing, sheds new light on this challenge and offers a roadmap for improvement.
Li and his team delved into the performance of wind power generation across various provinces in China, employing a sophisticated blend of analytical tools. The DEA-TOPSIS model, a hybrid of Data Envelopment Analysis and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution, was used to evaluate wind power performance. This model was then compared with the super efficiency DEA model, revealing that the DEA-TOPSIS approach provides a more nuanced and accurate assessment.
The study uncovered some striking findings. “The pure technical efficiency of wind power in various provinces is lower than the scale efficiency as a whole,” Li noted. This means that while some provinces are technically capable of generating wind power, they are not operating at their full potential. The research also highlighted the significant impact of geographical proximity on wind power development, suggesting that regional cooperation could be a key driver in enhancing performance.
To understand the broader implications, the team introduced a space panel model to analyze the influencing factors. The results were clear: the level of regional economic development and the extent of wind curtailment are the primary factors affecting wind power performance. This insight is crucial for policymakers and energy companies looking to optimize their operations.
The commercial impacts of this research are far-reaching. By identifying the key factors that hinder wind power performance, energy companies can make more informed decisions about where and how to invest in wind power infrastructure. For instance, regions with high economic development but low wind power utilization could benefit from targeted investments in grid infrastructure to reduce curtailment. Conversely, areas with high technical efficiency but low economic development might require policy support to boost local economies and, in turn, enhance wind power utilization.
Li’s work, published in ‘Zhongguo dianli’ (translated to ‘China Electric Power’), provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating and improving wind power performance. As China continues to push towards its energy revolution goals, this research offers a valuable tool for stakeholders to navigate the complexities of wind power development. By addressing the root causes of inefficiency, the energy sector can move closer to a future where wind power plays a more significant and efficient role in the national energy mix.
