- Noubeg Power has been selected as Consultant by the Ministry of Energy and Power Development (MOEPD) of Zimbabwe to conduct the wind resource assessment subcomponent of the Energy Sector Reform support Project (ESRP).Â
The Ministry of Energy and Power Development (MOEPD) with support from the African Development Bank (AfDB) would like to carry out wind energy resource measurements on eight sites that have the highest wind energy potential in Zimbabwe. These sites are to be determined through measurements as well as modelling exercise or analysis of publicly available data. The intention is to measure wind speed and direction at these sites and remotely collect data for at least one year at height of 80 – 100m.
The purpose of this project is to create an accurate knowledge base of the wind resource available in Zimbabwe through measurement and analysis of wind speed data, to help the country plan for wind energy projects. The most promising sites will then be subjected to Detailed Feasibility Studies and Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) conforming to the AfDB Integrated Safeguard System for category 1 projects. The data and information generated will be used in designing large scale wind power generation projects for Zimbabwe.
Under a 24-months contract, Noubeg Power will:
- assess suitability of the proposed sites for the establishment of wind farms,
- design an appropriate technology for wind measurement,
- install met masts for data collection over at least 12 months,
- prepare detailed feasibility studies and (v) carry out ESIA studies conforming to local and AfDB standards.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
