Geoinformation Modelling and Mapping of Wind Resource Potential within the Rata River Basin

The study focuses on the modelling and mapping of wind resources within the Rata River basin, located on the territories of Poland and Ukraine, a left tributary of the Western Bug (Vistula basin). The analysis used spatial data from the Global Wind Atlas and daily wind speed and direction records from the Rava-Ruska meteorological station for 2024. Within a GIS environment, spatial modelling of wind speed at heights of 50 and 100 meters above ground level was performed, a series of thematic maps was generated, and zones with the highest wind potential were identified. It was established that throughout the year, winds with speeds of 2–6 m/s (12–25 days per month) prevail within the study area, with maximum values occurring in December, November, and January, and minimum values in July and August. The diurnal wind speed pattern is characterized by a decrease from 05:00 to 12:00 and a gradual increase in the afternoon. The prevailing wind directions are west and southwest. Spatial analysis of the obtained data revealed that areas with increased wind speeds (2–9 m/s) are concentrated in the central and southeastern parts of the basin. The results can be applied in planning environmental monitoring, wind energy infrastructure, and assessing the region's renewable energy potential.