Comprehensive Assessment of Flood Impact, Zonal Statistics, and Site Suitability for Wind Turbines in Iowa

Floods, exacerbated by climate change and urban development, pose significant global risks, particularly impacting the wind energy sector in Iowa due to its reliance on wind power. Despite this, current research often overlooks the comprehensive effects of environmental factors on wind turbine vulnerability. This study investigates how elevation and flood risk influence the susceptibility of wind turbines to damage in Iowa. Utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and statistical analyses, we investigated the likelihood of flooding in designated buffer zones, considering soil drainage capabilities. Additionally, we explored potential disruptions in wind energy capacity and recommended optimal turbine placement sites. Our findings revealed a significant correlation between elevation variations, flood likelihood, and turbine vulnerability, suggesting that larger buffer zones lead to increased exposure to flood risks. These insights underscore the urgent need for proactive mitigation strategies to enhance the resilience of Iowa's renewable energy infrastructure against environmental challenges. This research provides critical knowledge to inform decision-making and safeguard Iowa's wind energy assets against future flood events.