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Manx Utilities wind device records 'significantly' better than anticipated results

Credit: Manx Utilities

Average wind speed at Earystane above historical data

Manx Utilities says initial results from its wind monitoring system are ‘significantly’ better than anticipated.

Data from the SODAR system have been released which shows average wind speed across the board to be higher than projected estimates.

Potential energy yield is now forecast to be in the region of 100 - 150 gigawatt-hours per year.

The device was installed at Earystane in September last year for a 12-month period before it will move to Druidale for another year.

Wind speed and background noise are being recorded by the sonic detection and ranging device.

The forecasted estimate is based on historical data from 30-years prior, including statistics from the Ronaldsway Met Office, known as the Numeric Objective Analysis Boundary Layer (NOABL).

The figures come as part of efforts to identify the most suitable location for onshore wind farms to be placed.

The public authority hopes to build up to 4-5 turbines and generate more than 20 megawatts of energy for the Isle of Man.

Lizzie Riley is the Energy Transition Programme Manager:

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