Abstract:
Ever-increasing demand for energy, particularly in developing nations, has accentuated the urgency to explore renewable energy sources. Wind energy is a promising avenue for sustainable power generation. To harness wind energy efficiently, understanding local wind flow patterns is crucial, especially in urban environments where buildings can significantly influence wind dynamics. This study delves into the analysis of wind flow around major buildings within the campus of the College of Engineering Trivandrum, focusing on the optimization of wind energy generation through mini and micro wind turbines. Using numerical simulations, the wind flow patterns surrounding tall buildings within the campus are investigated. A three-dimensional computational model is constructed to replicate the complex interactions between wind and the built environment. The simulations are conducted with inlet velocities ranging from 3 m/s to 8 m/s, the wind conditions typically encountered in the region. By leveraging the insights gained from the wind flow analysis, optimal locations for installing wind turbines to maximize power generation are identified. The strategic placement of these turbines takes into account factors such as wind speed, direction, and turbulence, as well as the presence of obstructions such as buildings. The methodology employed can be adapted and applied to similar urban settings, aiding planners, architects, and engineers in designing sustainable energy solutions that harness the untapped potential of wind resources. Integration of mini and micro wind turbines into urban landscapes not only contributes to renewable energy generation but also promotes environmental sustainability and resilience to climate change. In conclusion, this study offers insights into wind flow dynamics around major buildings in an urban campus setting and demonstrates how such knowledge can be harnessed to optimize wind energy generation.