AbstractOpportunities and Challenges of Utilizing GIS in Wind Energy DevelopmentTrack: Climate Change Author This presentation takes a look at some of the challenges facing the utilization of GIS in wind energy development and the inherent opportunities. GIS is a valuable tool for all phases of wind energy project development. From site prospecting to project construction the mapping, analytical and modeling techniques of GIS are leveraged to ensure that wind turbines are installed on strategic locations to harness the maximum amount of wind energy for conversion in to electrical energy. Among the challenges facing GIS in wind energy projects include locating turbines in complex terrains, optimal spacing of turbines to avoid wake effects (wind blockage), mitigating the impacts of noise and shadow flickers on nearby residents and addressing the numerous environmental and regulatory policies in the design process. Managing and serving out the huge array of datasets required for projects in the development stage to clients in remote offices with slow network speed poses additional challenge. Christian Okeke Horizon Wind Energy 808 Travis Street Suite 700 Houston, Texas 77002 United States Phone: 713-356-2515 Fax: 713-265-0365 E-mail: Christian.okeke@horizonwind.com |