The Potential of Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Using Wind Energy Technology at Selected Sites in Malaysia

Abstract

Wind energy is one of the five fuels that can support the reduction of greenhouse gases and climate change impact. Wind energy is one of the most promising renewable energy sources that can be exploited to succeed in 1/20 of the renewable energy mix in Malaysia. This study aimed to determine the value of GHG savings on wind energy potential based on Meteorological Aerodrome Report (METAR) data in Malaysia to establish a suitable wind farm in Kudat and Langkawi Island that can potentially generate electricity. The wind speed data were collected from the METAR report broadcasted hourly. Wind speed extrapolation was based on the selected wind turbine generator (WTG) with 950 kW and 60 kW capacity. The prospect of wind energy was analysed using the Weibull distribution to determine the parameter of shape (k) and scale (c) from the wind speed frequency distribution. Finally, the Annual Energy Production (AEP) and the GHG savings were estimated. Based on the study, the annual reduction of GHG emissions ranges from 150 to 1,300 tonnes of CO2 per year. The ten-year projection roughly estimates about 1,500 to 13,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. Implementing a low-carbon, cost-effective energy source would undoubtedly enhance Malaysia’s sustainable energy system, as proposed by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7.