Assessing the Impact of Forests on Wind Flow Dynamics and Wind Turbine Energy Production

Forests play a vital role in influencing wind flow by modifying turbulence intensity and vertical wind shear. As wind turbines are susceptible to these conditions, accurately describing wind flow in forested environments is vital for ensuring structural reliability and realistic energy yield assessments. In Latvia, where approximately 51,3% of the territory is covered by forests, the likelihood of wind turbine deployment in such areas is considerable. However, wind behaviour within and above forests is complex and strongly influenced by canopy effects, which in turn affect wake dynamics, structural fatigue, and power production. Advancing research in this field is therefore crucial for improving the accuracy of wind resource assessment and supporting evidence-based engineering solutions that enable the sustainable development of wind energy. Moreover, a better understanding of forest–atmosphere interactions contributes to more precise estimations of the Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE), as accurate wind flow modelling directly impacts energy yield predictions, project feasibility, and long-term economic performance.