A reanalysis of UK wind speeds using the WRF mesoscale model

Wind is the fastest growing source of renewable power in the UK and will contribute most to the targets for 2020 [1]. Integration of large amounts of wind generation into the grid presents serious challenges, since wind generation is variable in both time and space, and is not dispatchable in the way that thermal generation is. Key to overcoming these challenges is a detailed understanding of the resource, as this will determine when and where power generation can be utilised, what networks are best suited to transport it. Wind speed measurements onshore lack spatial resolution, and are influenced by local terrain and surroundings. Offshore, measurements are difficult to obtain at sufficient temporal and spatial resolution. Mesoscale modelling is fast becoming a key tool for both short-term forecasting and long-term resource analysis. The work presented here is based on the results of a four-year reanalysis at 5km resolution over the UK and surrounding waters [2]. The final project will cover the UK at 3km resolution and cover a 10-year period.