TITLE:
Spatio-Temporal Characterization of Wind Regimes in the Algerian Basin: Implications for Offshore Wind Energy Development
AUTHORS:
Redouane Larbi Boufeniza, Benyahia Firad, Malika Brihoum, Meriem Chahrour
KEYWORDS:
Wind Regimes, Spatio-Temporal Variability, Algerian Basin, Offshore Wind Energy, ERA5, Renewable Energy Potential
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.13 No.4,
April
3,
2026
ABSTRACT: Wind is a critical meteorological parameter that influences numerous environmental, oceanic, and human activities. This study presents a comprehensive spatio-temporal characterization of wind regimes in the Algerian Basin based on 84 years (1940-2024) of ERA5 reanalysis data. Statistical and geospatial analyses were conducted to explore monthly, seasonal, and annual variability in wind speed and direction. The study also applied anomaly detection, Mann-Kendall trend testing, and Empirical Orthogonal Functions (EOF) to identify dominant wind patterns. The results indicate significant variability, with higher wind speeds recorded in the winter season and stronger gradients observed in the eastern basin. A composite scoring system incorporating wind velocity, bathymetric depth, and distance to shore was used to select optimal sites for offshore wind farm development. Simulation of three candidate sites with 15 MW turbines showed considerable power generation potential. These findings contribute vital data for Algeria’s renewable energy planning and marine spatial strategy.