| Summary, etc |
This study presents the design and of a Savonius wind turbine system for road lighting applications in Tuguegarao City, aiming to promote sustainable energy solutions aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 7, 8, 11, and 13. The research addresses the growing energy demand and high electricity costs in the Philippines by evaluating the feasibility of using wind energy, specifically, wind generated by natural flow and vehicle movement, to power streetlights along Enrile Avenue in Tuguegarao City, Cagayan. The study assessed local wind patterns, identified road segments with adequate wind velocity, and developed a functional Savonius wind turbine prototype. The turbine was tested to evaluate its performance, measuring wind speed, voltage output, and rotational speed. Results showed that the highest recorded wind speed was 5.93 m/s, generating a maximum output of 5.07 volts and 88 rotations per minute. The turbine demonstrated the ability to convert wind energy into electricity, achieving an efficiency rate of 33.11%. However, energy production per turbine was limited, supplying only 2.9% of the energy required to power a single LED streetlight for 11.5 hours daily. The cost-benefit analysis indicated a payback period of approximately 21.6 years, suggesting that the current prototype is not economically viable for large-scale application. Nonetheless, the study proves the potential of vehicle-induced wind as a supplementary energy source. It highlights the importance of optimizing turbine design, improving placement strategies, and exploring hybrid systems with solar energy. In conclusion, while the prototype's output is currently insufficient for standalone street light operation, the research provides valuable insights for future improvements. The findings contribute to the broader development of renewable urban infrastructure and pave the way for innovative, localized energy solutions in developing cities like Tuguegarao.
Keywords: Savonius wind turbine, road lighting, renewable energy, sustainable development goals (SDG), vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT), vehicle-induced wind, energy efficiency, wind power, swept area. |