A review of wind energy literature: alternative technologies for Central America

Abstract

Wind energy has proven to be one of the most viable sources of renewable energy. In this sense, although wind power generation systems have evolved considerably in size, capacity and design, it has not been possible to build an ideal system, due to the behaviour of the wind, which varies temporarily, being something uncontrollable that depends of its direction and affects the efficiency of a wind system. Specifically, this paper focuses on making a first literature review that identifies the best technologies that can be implemented in Central America (CA). Although the types of wind turbines most used in CA are three-blade horizontal axis, since they take advantage of the variability of the winds, this review shows there are other technologies in developed countries for obtaining kinetic energy, by means of vertical Rotors that can be implemented. The results obtained have practical implications in the adoption of alternative technologies for developing countries in CA.

A wind power comparison between Costa Rica and the rest of the world

“…Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras have been preparing new facilities for wind energy production, whereas Panama is just joining these countries as well. This just shows the potential that Central America possesses [18].…”