# Examining the historical trend of wind turbine maximum capacity in Egypt

## TL;DR

This paper examines how wind turbine capacity in Egypt has changed over time, highlighting the country's wind energy potential and the impact of climate and technology.

## Contribution

The study provides a historical comparison of wind turbine performance in Egypt using two distinct time periods and ERA5-land data.

## Key findings

- Egypt's southern regions have seen a 0.2 m/s increase in wind speed over recent decades.
- The maximum capacity ratio of 15 MW wind turbines ranges from 38% to 43%.
- Strategic investment in underdeveloped regions could enhance Egypt's wind energy potential.

## Abstract

Wind energy is a clean, consistent, and increasingly affordable renewable energy source that plays a crucial role in addressing the challenges faced by fossil fuel resources. Due to Egypt’s unique geographical position and elevated mean wind speeds, Egypt has become a front-line player in the world wind industry. Egypt’s coastal regions, particularly along the Red Sea and Mediterranean coastlines, possess an unmatched potential for wind power, making these areas highly favorable to large-scale wind farms. Egypt’s wind power potential is examined through a thorough mapping and in-depth analysis of the distribution parameters of wind speed based on ERA5-land reanalysis data. Zafarana, Egypt’s primary wind energy center, has provided the opportunity to install numerous Horizontal Axis Wind Turbines (HAWT). The current study refers to other regions’ potential, especially in southern Egypt, where wind speed has experienced an impressive rise of 0.2 m/s over recent decades. As part of presenting an exhaustive explanation of Egypt’s wind power dynamics, this research samples nine representative wind turbines, divided into two distinct periods: the earlier period (1950–1979) and the more recent period (1990–2019). By comparing these two phases, the study discovers how climatic conditions and technological advancements have affected wind turbine efficiency and performance. The maximum capacity ratio of the 15 MW wind turbine is in the range from 38% to 43%. The findings of this study not only show the enormous potential of wind energy in Egypt but also highlight the value of strategic investment and planning in untapped regions. Such a study provides a foundation for policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders to optimize wind power utilization and enhance Egypt’s overall renewable energy targets. Lastly, the effort assists in enriching the country’s ability to limit global warming as its economic progress is improved by establishing its abundant wind resources.