Development of a simulation model for a three-dimensional wind velocity field using Ténès Algeria as a case study

A mathematical simulation model was developed that can determine the three-dimensional wind velocity
field over a complex terrain. The Ténès area in the Valley of Cheliff in Algeria was used as a case study.
This region is exposed to south-west circulation that makes it favorable to the use of wind energy. Knowledge
of wind fields is crucial for predicting the dispersion of pollutants, for forecasting meteorological
weather, for fire spread prediction and in the design and implementation of wind turbines. By means
of a mass consistent model, an in-house program was developed to calculate the three-dimensional
wind velocity field in the study region. The model was supported by a numerical box in which flow
through is allowed for in the upper and lateral boundaries. The bottom boundary through which no flow
through occurs was determined by the topographic relief at the surface. From measured wind velocities,
observed values were calculated by interpolation–extrapolation. Using an optimization method, the
adjusted velocities were obtained from constraints, observed velocities and the continuity equation. The
model was verified with wind point data, the relative error did not exceed 6%.