Exploratory Analysis of Wind Resource and Doppler LiDAR Performance in Southern Patagonia

Abstract

Southern Patagonia in Argentina possesses a world-class wind resource; however, itsremote location challenges long-term monitoring. This study presents the first long-termDoppler LiDAR-based wind characterization in the region, analyzing six months of highresolutiondata at a 100 m hub height. Power for the LiDAR is provided by a hybridsystem combining photovoltaic (PV) and grid sources, with remote monitoring. Theresults reveal two distinct seasonal regimes identified through a multi-model statisticalframework (Weibull, Lognormal, and non-parametric Kernel Density Estimation: a highenergysummer with concentrated westerly flows and pronounced diurnal cycles (Weibullscale parameter A ≈ 11.9 m/s), and a more stable autumn with a broad wind directionspectrum (shape parameter k ≈ 2.86). Energy output, simulated using Windographerv5.3.12 (Academic License) for a Vestas V117-3.3MWturbine, shows close alignment (~15%difference) with the operational Bicentenario I & II wind farm (Jaramillo, AR), validatingthe site’s wind energy potential. This study confirms the viability of utility-scale windpower generation in Southern Patagonia and establishes Doppler LiDAR as a reliable toolfor high-resolution wind resource assessment in remote, high-wind environments.