Title: Wind Energy Accessment And Viability At Okuru, Rivers State, Nigeria Using Weibull Distribution
Authors: Blessing Dike, Bodise Lebrun Bolou-sobai, Charles Godspower Idongha
Volume: 10
Issue: 7
Pages: 288-299
Publication Date: 2026/07/28
Abstract:
The growing demand for sustainable electricity generation has led to growing interest in renewable energy resources as an alternative to fossil-fuel-based electricity generation systems, especially wind energy. This study aims to assess the wind energy potential and feasibility of Okuru, Rivers State, Nigeria, using the Weibull distribution model. To calculate Weibull parameters, characteristic wind speed, wind power density, and energy density, 3-year wind speed data (2020-2022) were analyzed at 3 hub heights of 55 m, 65 m, and 75 m, respectively. The results revealed that the Weibull shape parameter (k) was found to be 4.16 to 4.69, representing a less variable wind regime. The annual mean value of the scale parameter (c) increased with the height of the hub, namely 9.51 m/s, 10.26 m/s, and 10.97 m/s at 55 m, 65 m, and 75 m, respectively. The highest value of wind energy carrying was obtained at a hub height of 75m with 11.88m/s wind speed. The wind power densities at the three heights were 443.42 W/m2, 557.14 W/m2 and 680.54 W/m2, respectively, for the three heights. The site was classified as Class 4, Class 5, and Class 6 at 55 m, 65 m, and 75 m, respectively, based on the NREL wind classification system, representing good to outstanding wind potential. The study has confirmed that wind conditions in Okuru are favorable for medium-scale wind energy development.