NWT RESEARCH DATABASE

Regions: Sahtu Settlement Area

Tags: physical sciences, economic feasibility, wind energy, wind monitoring

Objective(s): The objective of this proposal is to quantify the wind energy potential for the economic feasibility of building a wind farm in Norman Wells.

Project Description: The objective of this proposal is to quantify the wind energy potential for the economic feasibility of building a wind farm in Norman Wells. This project will involve a site inspection, installation of wind tower and wind monitoring equipment (a 50m tower with 6 calibrated anemometers positioned at 10m, 20m, 30m, 40m and two at 50m level, a wind vane and temperature sensors), and data collection. A Pre-feasibility Analysis and Consultation will also be conducted with the Hamlet. The project will be supported by a technician from the Aurora Research Institute (ARI) and a community member will be hired and trained to maintain equipment and collect data. The community wind monitor will visit the site monthly and maintain the equipment for a period of two years. A report with preliminary wind data analysis will be produced after one year and a final report will be compiled after completion. The wind monitoring equipment will be removed from site when complete. The results will be reported on the Aurora Research Institute website. Copies of the report will be distributed to the Norman Wells community organizations. Fieldwork will be conducted from June 15 to December 31, 2008 within the municipal boundary of Norman Wells (65°18.65'N, 126°43.827'W). The tower site is located on Commissioner's Land outside of any surveyed parcels.