WER-14: The use of wind power for oil production in Kansas
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Abstract
Five topics concerning the use of wind power by the Kansas crude oil production industry are explored: ( l ) the Kansas wind resource; (2) methods of oil production; (3) energy requirements of the oil industry; (4) wind power options; and (5) economics of those options . Wind power is found to be an economical energy alternative which could have a significant impact on 0; 1 industry energy requirements. Most of Kansas enjoys winds which average above 12 mi/hr, a value of wind speed for which wind machines are attractive. Furthermore. there is good correlation between areas of high wind and oil production. Two methods of wind power utilization are investigated: direct mechanical pumping and parallel electrical generation. Water pumping windmills should be able to produce up to 65 barrels of fluid per day from wells 1000 feet deep. Very preliminary results indicate the mechanical WECS could easily be economical with a 10 year life if propane is displaced. Parallel electrical generation may be used at nearly any electrified lease. it is the easiest method to implement and has no effect on oil production. In many cases parallel generating wind machines should be economical with a 10 year life.