Professor Earns Wind-Power Research Grant

MELBOURNE, FLA. — Yahya Sharaf-Eldeen, Ph.D., Florida Tech associate professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering, has earned a grant for the project,
“Small-Scale Wind Power in Florida: Resource Analysis, Technology Demonstration and Maraket Assessment.” The university is a partner on an innovative
research and demonstration project designed and managed by Progress Energy Florida, Inc. and partially funded by the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection (DEP). The total cost of the project is $1,322,820.

The project involves evaluating opportunities for wind energy generation in Florida by using five wind turbines at five different inland locations across
the state. Sharaf-Eldeen’s part of this work is to assess wind resource potential in the Progress Energy Florida service area that includes Pinellas,
Citrus, Levy, Sumter and Orange or Lake Counties. He and a graduate student will evaluate and select appropriate sites to erect the wind turbines. They
will provide technical expertise, research and grant administration services.

Progress Energy Florida and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise have contributed land in each target county for the project.

Progress Energy Florida was one of eight organizations receiving 2007-2008 funding through the Florida DEP Renewable Energy Technologies Grant Program.