The turbine performance profiles outlined above do not match well with the Thai monsoonal
climate where near still air conditions alternate with high turbulence, giving overall very low average
wind speeds. For reference, tables of wind power classes have been developed in the literature [4], as
provided in the following examples (Table 3). It is evident from the current review that wind turbine
and technology developments in the “low wind speed” zones refer to developments around class 3 – 4
wind speeds indicated in the above table. It seems that such developments are not at sufficiently low
wind speeds to be of significant benefit to most potential Thai applications.
However, a detailed economic assessment of the significance of the wind resource potential
identified in the DEDP report and table (Table 1) cited previously might be justified. Also, the
potential for rural applications where the performance and economics of modern turbine types could be
compared with traditional types in applications such as water pumping, battery charging, etc.,
particularly in remote areas, could usefully be investigated.
Finally, wind power globally is facing increasing obstacles, aside from economic or wind speed
considerations. The situation of wind power in Australia, for example, and the climate for investment
in this technology has recently become very uncertain as a result of the Australian Federal Government
decisions not to increase support for MRET (Mandated Renewable Energy Target) by increasing its