Chambersburg Chambersburg Renewable Energy Feasibility Study Renewable Energy Feasibility Study

Wind TurbineWind Turbine

Jinliang LiJinliang Li

ESEI

Project Motivation and Objects Project Motivation and Objects Project Motivation

Chambersburg is a unique smart-grid based self-sufficient electric utility in Pennsylvania. It is a real-world example of how a small utility can be successful. Chambersburg is famous for its low electric price rates and it is time to add another title to Chambersburg, “Green Energy Generation”. In August 3, 2015, President Obama and EPA has announced a new Clean Power Plan, which is requiring a dramatic reducing the Carbon pollution from power plants. So it is a great opportunity to introduce wind power into Chambersburg energy portfolio, which could not only resolve the carbon emission regulation issues but also can expand Chambersburg’s electric generation profile.

Project Objects

① A Detail Feasibility Study of Wind Turbine installation includes proper turbine models and optimal pole heights

② A Construction Strategy

③ An Output Study of The Designed Wind Turbine

④ A Financial Estimation of Possible Cost and Payback Period

Pennsylvania Annul Wind MapPennsylvania Annul Wind Map

From the Pennsylvania wind map we can see the location of Chambersburg is besides the town of York and the annual average wind speed at 80m in Chambersburg is around 7 m/s. 7 m/s is a relative low wind speed for construction of wind turbine farm. Comparing with other places in Pennsylvania such as Sandy Ridge, Allegheny Ridge, and Mill Run, which have a higher wind speed around 10 m/s, Chambersburg may require special designed low wind speed wind turbine for an efficient energy output.

Recommended Turbine ModelRecommended Turbine ModelReasons for Choosing NPS 60-24 Model for Chambersburg

•Low wind speed design The Turbine is designed for specific low wind speed (10 m/s), which is suit to Chambersburg low wind speed region. •Easy to construction The Turbine’s hub is designed in 23 meters, which is relatively convenient to install and suit to the construction landscape. •Plug and Play The Turbine is design to simplify grid interconnect, because the construction ground is located besides a transmission station, it is essential to consider that the simplicity of plug and cut-off the wind turbine system.

•Quiet The gearless design, advanced blades, and low rpm and tip speed, all contribute to low noise levels. Considering the residential in Chambersburg, Quietness is a unique benefit to Borough of Chambersburg, which may bring positive public image.  •Easier Permitting The lower hub height helps Chambersburg to permit on site wind power generation proposal.

Site Construction PlanSite Construction Plan

Financial Analysis and Financial Analysis and Feasibility Study ConclusionFeasibility Study Conclusion

Overall Total Estimation Construction Cost Estimation

Summary of Recommendations

Financially, the project cannot be justified due to the long payback period of time which is about 40 years. It will greatly exceed the wind turbine designed life which is 20 years.

The wind turbine may provide other benefits to Chambersburg such as improved public image through green generation and being a new technology adaptor.