UNICEF Yemen: Wind Energy Feasibility Study for Water Supply Systems in Yemen

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Exploring Renewable Energy Options for Water Supply Systems  in Yemen:

Yemen’s energy landscape presents unique challenges and opportunities, particularly in harnessing renewable energy sources to meet essential water supply needs. This feasibility study examines the viability of wind energy in Yemen to power Water Supply Systems focusing on the strengths and limitations based on the country’s distinct geographical and climatic context.

While some locations, such as the Taiz region, show promising wind potential for wind farms, the broader suitability of wind energy is constrained by high daily and seasonal variability. In most areas, effective wind energy generation would require high-reaching turbines, which pose significant logistical, technical, and financial challenges. Large turbines demand specialist equipment, substantial infrastructure, and extensive capital investments that are 5–10 times higher than solar energy. Additionally, Yemen’s mountainous terrain complicates the transportation and installation of wind turbine components, making this option less feasible for widespread adoption.

Solar energy emerges as the most practical and cost-effective renewable solution for water supply in Yemen. Solar power offers predictable energy production, lower capital and operational costs, and greater scalability to match varying energy demands. Its modular design simplifies transportation, installation, and maintenance, making it an adaptable choice for Yemen’s diverse terrains. However, the extensive land area required for high-energy outputs and the cost of energy storage solutions remain significant challenges.