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Mean wind speed, monthly profiles, and energy potential at 45.96°N, 86.25°W
Average wind speed at 100m hub height for each month of the year.
Manistique experiences peak winds during December (7.18 m/s) with lowest speeds in July (4.69 m/s). The seasonal pattern shows strong winter and spring winds with calmer summer conditions.
The ratio between peak and minimum monthly wind speed is 1.53, indicating significant seasonal variation. Energy production will be notably higher during windy months, which should be factored into PPA pricing and revenue projections.
Wind speed increases with height due to reduced surface friction. Modern turbines typically operate at 80-120m hub height.
| Height | Wind Speed (m/s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10m | 3.73 | Standard measurement height |
| 50m | 5.38 | Small/distributed turbines |
| 80m | 5.99 | Mid-size turbines |
| 100m | 6.3 | Modern utility-scale turbines |
Michigan ranks #17 nationally for wind energy capacity, making it a significant contributor to US wind energy production. The state's lake-effect corridors and farmland define its wind resource characteristics across different regions and elevations.
Michigan has approximately 2 GW of installed wind capacity, with additional projects in various stages of development. The state continues to attract wind energy investment due to its favorable resource conditions and supportive policy environment.
Michigan's position in the Midwest provides consistent wind exposure, particularly during winter and spring when large-scale weather systems drive strong surface winds. The relatively flat agricultural landscape reduces turbulence and creates favorable conditions for wind energy harvesting.
The mean wind speed in Manistique, Michigan is 6.3 m/s at 100m hub height, 5.99 m/s at 80m, and 3.73 m/s at 10m. Wind power density at this location is 153.2 W/m², classified as IEC Wind Class IV.
Manistique has a wind quality rating of "Moderate" based on its mean wind speed of 6.3 m/s at hub height. This location may be suitable for wind energy development with modern large-rotor turbines. Peak winds occur in December (7.18 m/s) with lowest speeds in July (4.69 m/s).
Small or distributed wind turbines may be most appropriate for this site. Vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs) or small horizontal axis turbines designed for low-wind environments should be evaluated for site-specific conditions.
Based on the mean wind speed near Manistique, a modern 3 MW turbine could produce approximately 6.3 GWh per year (capacity factor ~24%). That is enough to power roughly 601 average American homes. A 100 MW wind farm at this location could generate approximately 208 GWh annually, worth $7284.6M at $35/MWh wholesale electricity prices.
Explore wind data for nearby cities, sorted by wind quality.