Wind Resource Assessment in Highmore, SD

Mean wind speed, monthly profiles, and energy potential at 44.52°N, 99.44°W

7.37

Wind Speed (100m) m/s

IEC Wind Class

245.5

Wind Power Density W/m²

Good

Wind Quality

Monthly Wind Speed Profile

Average wind speed at 100m hub height for each month of the year.

Seasonal Analysis

Highmore experiences peak winds during April (8.48 m/s) with lowest speeds in July (6.49 m/s). The seasonal pattern shows a spring peak driven by strong pressure gradients, with lighter winds in late summer.

The ratio between peak and minimum monthly wind speed is 1.31, indicating moderate seasonal variation. Energy production will be relatively consistent throughout the year, which is favorable for baseload power contracts.

Wind Speed at Different Heights

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	4.53	Standard measurement height
50m	6.37	Small/distributed turbines
80m	7.03	Mid-size turbines
100m	7.37	Modern utility-scale turbines

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About Wind Energy in South Dakota

South Dakota ranks #14 nationally for wind energy capacity, making it a significant contributor to US wind energy production. The state's open prairies and buttes define its wind resource characteristics across different regions and elevations.

South Dakota has approximately 2.5 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.

Located in the heart of the Great Plains, South Dakota benefits from strong, persistent winds driven by continental-scale pressure systems. The flat terrain provides minimal obstruction, allowing wind to flow freely across the landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average wind speed in Highmore, SD?

The mean wind speed in Highmore, South Dakota is 7.37 m/s at 100m hub height, 7.03 m/s at 80m, and 4.53 m/s at 10m. Wind power density at this location is 245.5 W/m², classified as IEC Wind Class IV.

Is Highmore good for wind energy?

Highmore has a wind quality rating of "Good" based on its mean wind speed of 7.37 m/s at hub height. This location may be suitable for wind energy development with modern large-rotor turbines. Peak winds occur in April (8.48 m/s) with lowest speeds in July (6.49 m/s).

What size wind turbine works best in Highmore?

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.

How much energy can a wind farm produce near Highmore?

Based on the mean wind speed near Highmore, a modern 3 MW turbine could produce approximately 7.9 GWh per year (capacity factor ~30%). That is enough to power roughly 751 average American homes. A 100 MW wind farm at this location could generate approximately 260 GWh annually, worth $9106.0M at $35/MWh wholesale electricity prices.