Wind Resources: Where the Wind Blows
Understanding global wind patterns, resource assessment, and optimal locations for wind energy development
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Section 2 of 5Global Wind Resources
Wind resources vary significantly across the globe, influenced by geography, climate patterns, and atmospheric circulation. The best wind resources are typically found in coastal areas, mountain passes, and open plains where wind speeds are consistently high and turbulence is minimal.
Wind resource assessment involves measuring wind speed, direction, and variability over time. Modern wind farms use data from meteorological towers, satellite observations, and computer models to identify optimal sites and predict energy production.
Wind Power Potential
Global wind power potential is estimated at over 400,000 GW - more than 10 times current global electricity demand. However, only a fraction of this potential is economically viable and practically accessible.
Interactive Global Wind Resource Map
Global Wind Resource Map
North Sea
Class 7
Excellent offshore wind resources
180 GW
Great Plains (USA)
Class 6
Prime onshore wind territory
300 GW
Patagonia
Class 7
Strong, consistent winds
200 GW
North Africa
Class 6
High solar-wind potential
150 GW
China Sea
Class 6
Growing offshore market
250 GW
Southern Australia
Class 7
World-class wind corridors
100 GW
Wind Resource Assessment
Assessment Results
Wind Direction Analysis
Wind frequency by direction (for Open Plains)