An Assessment of Wind Energy Potential as an Electricity Generation Source in Iran

Iran, having a significant capacity for renewable energies, especially wind energy, can, in addition to providing a part of its energy needs from these sources, reduce the harmful effects of energy production from fossil sources and promote the development of deprived areas. The future perspective of the economical use of wind energy in Iran shows that this energy saves petroleum products as fuel. The resulting savings have primarily resulted in the preservation of petroleum products, which enables export and, more importantly, its conversion into many petrochemical derivatives with high added value. In the second degree, producing electricity from this energy is free of any environmental pollution, which helps maintain the environment’s healthy nature. As a result, the path to achieving sustainable economic and social development is provided. The use of wind energy in Iran, in addition to construction and development, has created new jobs. Finally, the country’s economy will grow more with the localization of wind energy technology. In the evaluation of wind power plants, the costs and revenues of the project, the investment return period, the price of electric energy produced, and the internal rate of return on capital are the final indicators for a complete comparison of different components. Since we pursue sustainable development to expand the electric energy supply system, we must consider each producer’s costs and social benefits. This chapter is descriptive and analytical. The findings indicated potential for wind energy and electricity generation source in provinces and regions of Iran. Moreover, a framework for future perspectives in wind energy strategies and policies is discussed.