Is Tower Height Crucial for Optimal Wind Power Generation?

[4220Fox]

Hi, Why is height of a wind generators tower so important? Given a 50-meter tower, at what wind 'power class' and at what 'power level' will wind power be considered economical (circa 2005)?

 

[mfb]

Hi, Why is height of a wind generators tower so important?

Wind speed (usually) increases with height, and more height allows bigger rotors as well.

 

[RTW69]

Google "Wind Power"

If you look at the velocity profile of a fluid moving across a flat horizontal plate you will see why elevation above the surface is important.

 

[4220Fox]

Thank you both very much-

Any ideas on if given a 50-meter tower, at what wind power 'class' and at what 'power level' will wind power be considered economical (in or about the yr 2005)? Best wishes,

 

[CWatters]

Was any turbine "economical" in 2005? Even today many need subsidies.