Wind Powered Irrigation in Kansas. A System Dynamics Approach.

摘要

Many options have been proposed for harnessing wind power for irrigation. Here, two options are investigated using a system dynamics approach. The first option uses mechanical energy extracted from the wind as input to a mechanical pump. A flywheel serves as a buffer and as storage for low wind periods. The second option uses the mechanical output from the windmill to generate electricity. This electricity is then fed into an electrolysis cell to produce hydrogen gas. This gas is then burned in an internal combustion engine which drives the pump. Surplus hydrogen is stored in depleted natural gas wells for use during low wind periods. A back up system is provided in both options for when the wind is not blowing and the stored energy has been exhausted.