A robust reduction in near-surface wind speed after volcanic eruptions: Implications for wind energy generation

Public summary

* Volcanic eruptions and geoengineering aerosol injections could significantly reduce wind speeds, impacting wind energy.

* Simulations reveal a consistent 2-year global wind speed reduction after volcanic eruptions.

* The reduction is linked to a decrease in downward momentum flux, triggered by volcanic aerosol forcing.

* The 1815 Tambora eruption led to a ∼9.2% reduction in global wind power density in the following 2 years.

Abstract

Near-surface wind speed (NSWS), a determinant of wind energy, is influenced by both natural and anthropogenic factors. However, the specific impacts of volcanic eruptions on NSWS, remain unexplored. Our simulations spanning the last millennium reveal a consistent 2-year global NSWS reduction following 10 major historical eruptions. This equates to an NSWS decrease of approximately two inter-annual standard deviations from AD 851 to 1849. This reduction is linked to the weakening of subtropical descending air and a decrease in downward momentum flux, triggered by volcanic aerosol forcing. The 1815 Tambora eruption, one of the most powerful in recent history, led to a ∼9.2% reduction in global wind power density in the subsequent 2 years. Our research fills a knowledge gap, establishes a theoretical foundation for empirical studies, and highlights the potential wind energy risks linked to large atmospheric aerosol injections, including volcanic eruptions, nuclear warfare, and climate intervention.