Wind Energy Supply Profiling and Offshore Potential in South Africa

Stefan Karamanski () and Gareth Erfort
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Stefan Karamanski: Energy Supply and Demand Group, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa
Gareth Erfort: Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch 7600, South Africa

Energies, 2023, vol. 16, issue 9, 1-24

Abstract: South Africa’s energy network is under severe pressure due to low supply and overwhelming demand. With an increase in renewable energy providers, specifically wind energy, knowing how the supply can satisfy the electricity demand may relieve apprehensions. This research aims to provide insight into the wind energy supply of South Africa and question how well this supply meets the demand of South Africa. The methodology used in this work highlights the importance of access to public datasets to dispel misconceptions in the energy industry. Additionally, the work supports network planning and the arguments for increasing wind energy penetration on the South African grid. Wind profiles and the typical energy production of South African wind farms are compared to electricity demand. The geographical spacing of the operational wind farms is considered. It is observed that wind energy supply assists in the peak electricity hourly demand as well as seasonal peaks. Furthermore, South Africa’s coast is analysed to determine the offshore wind power potential, where shallow and deep waters are considered. It is observed that South Africa has a high potential for offshore wind, even after losses are applied.

Keywords: wind profiles; supply curve; energy demand; power matching; geographic supply influences; numerical model; offshore wind; power potential (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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