Techno-Economic Assessment of Wind Energy with Battery Storage and Membrane-Based Air Filtration for Cleaner and More Efficient Power in Naama

Abstract

This study provides a detailed techno-economic assessment of a wind energy system integrated with battery storage, specifically designed for the Naâma region of Algeria. Conducted at a small scale using a mini wind turbine, the results were scaled to model the performance of a wind farm comprising multiple turbines. The analysis combines experimental measurements, refined simulations, and economic evaluations to optimize system performance and assess its feasibility for large-scale deployment.

The technical findings highlight the seasonal wind patterns modeled using the Weibull distribution, revealing a characteristic wind speed of 8 m/s, with peak energy production during spring and fall. The hybrid system achieved an average seasonal efficiency of 85%, supported by optimized battery storage of 100–120 kWh, ensuring a reliable energy supply during surplus and deficit periods.

A key innovation in this study is the integration of membrane-based filtration technology to mitigate the disper- sion of PM10 and PM2.5 particles around wind turbines. Simulations using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) demonstrate that membrane filtration reduces PM10 concentration by up to 65% within 20 meters of the turbine. The results further indicate that filtration is most effective at low wind speeds, where natural dispersion is mini- mal. At higher wind speeds, wind turbulence naturally reduces PM10 concentration, making filtration less critical beyond 50 meters. The efficiency of filtration systems decreases with distance, emphasizing the need for strategic membrane placement near turbine bases. Moreover, higher-efficiency membranes (80%) significantly outperform lower-efficiency solutions (50%) in reducing particulate pollution.

Economic evaluations demonstrate the system’s viability, with a scaled-up configuration of 20 turbines achiev- ing a net present value (NPV) exceeding 11 million DZD ($82,090) and a payback period of 7 years under a tariff of 4 DZD/kWh. Sensitivity analyses emphasize the critical role of energy tariffs, identifying profitability thresholds at 2.5 DZD/kWh. The additional analysis of air filtration systems suggests potential maintenance cost reductions by mitigating particle-induced wear on turbine components.

This study not only validates the technical and economic feasibility of wind energy systems in Naâma but also demonstrates the potential environmental benefits of membrane filtration in wind farms. The findings provide a scalable framework for optimizing wind energy production while ensuring sustainable environmental management. Future research should focus on field validation of membrane filtration, alternative aerodynamic strategies for pollution control, and large-scale deployment models to further enhance system performance and adaptability.