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Pico-scale wind turbine system for sustainable electricity provision in off-grid rural regions
Author(s)
Temilola, John Busayo
Date Issued
2026
Type
master thesis
Publisher
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Abstract
This research investigates the practical feasibility of deploying pico-scale vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs), specifically of the Darrieus configuration, as decentralized power generation solutions for remote rural communities without access to grid electricity. The overarching goal is to provide sustainable, low-cost electrical energy for essential enduses such as mobile phone charging, small communication devices, and LED lighting. The Darrieus VAWT topology was selected for its compact footprint, omnidirectional wind capture capability, and relatively favorable aerodynamic performance in low to moderate wind speed regimes. A transient Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model of a pico-scale Darrieus VAWT was developed in ANSYS Fluent. The simulation employed a Six Degrees of Freedom (6DOF) dynamic mesh solver, enabling free rotation of the rotor driven solely by aerodynamic forces, thereby capturing realistic self-starting and operational behavior. The analysis covered wind speeds ranging from 2 m/s to 10 m/s and angles of attack (AoA) between 0° and 25°. Aerodynamic performance metrics—such as torque, lift force, and power coefficient (Cp)were evaluated using the Realizable k-ε model turbulence model to accurately resolve boundary layer separation, dynamic stall, and wake vortex structures. A mesh sensitivity study was conducted to ensure grid convergence and numerical stability. Simulation results revealed that the turbine achieved peak performance at an electrical output of 38.29 W, corresponding to wind speeds of 6–8 m/s and AoA values of 5°–10°. Below 4 m/s, torque generation was insufficient to overcome bearing and aerodynamic losses due to inadequate lift production. Conversely, AoA values exceeding 15° induced pronounced dynamic stalls, characterized by flow separation, elevated pressure drag, and reduced Cp. These findings indicate that the design is best suited to steady, moderate- wind environments and is less effective under persistently low or highly turbulent wind conditions. The study concludes that pico-scale Darrieus VAWTs offer viable potential for small-scale rural electrification but are most effective when integrated into hybrid renewable energy systems. Coupling the turbine with photovoltaic modules and battery storage would mitigate the intermittency of wind resources, enhance supply reliability and support broader rural electrification initiatives aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Real-world prototyping and experimental validation are recommended to refine aerodynamic predictions and confirm long-term performance under field conditions.
Additional information
Thesis (MEng (Chemical Engineering))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2026
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Temilola, J_222847808 (1).pdf
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