GIS-based approach for the evaluation of wind energy potential: A case study for the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodeship

The use of renewable energy sources for energy production is increasingly gaining importance in the transition of energy systems based on fossil fuels. In Poland, wind energy is expected to play a role in fulfilling the recent targets set out by the national policy. As the utilisation of wind energy is perceived to be associated with various negative impacts, this kind of energy source should be systematically addressed by related spatial policy instruments to ensure its harmonisation with infrastructural, ecological and socio-economic systems. The objective of this study is to develop an approach to support the decision making process connected with the site selection for wind energy projects using a geographical information system. Available locations for wind farm sites were investigated according to defined criteria reflecting the spatial and ecological policy and regulations. The technical and economic potential was estimated to quantify the conditions of the case study region regarding the utilisation of the wind source. The methodology was applied to the Kujawsko-Pomorskie Voivodeship, since no such study is available for the region. The results from the study should help to build a developmental vision for sustainable energy systems based on locally available resources. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.