Kukunda, Anyensi2026-10-082026-10-082026Kukunda, A. (2026). Development and evaluation of a vertical-axis wind turbine for generation of electricity : a case of Busitema hill. [Unpublished dissertation]. Busitema University.https://bdears.busitema.ac.ug/handle/123456789/10542DissertationAccess to reliable and affordable electricity remains a challenge in many rural and peri-urban communities in Uganda despite the country's growing energy demand and abundant renewable energy resources. Wind energy offers a clean and sustainable solution for decentralized electricity generation, particularly where grid extension is economically unfeasible. However, the development of locally designed small-scale wind turbines suitable for Uganda's low- to moderate-wind conditions remains limited. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a Vertical Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) for electricity generation using Busitema Hill as a case study. The study was conducted in three phases. First, the wind resource potential was assessed at Busitema University Main Campus (1,133 m asl), Busitema University Hill Top (1,188 m asl), and Busitema University Lower Plains (1,126 m asl) during the dry and wet seasons using a GT8709 BENETECH digital anemometer and a Global Positioning System (GPS). Second, a three-bladed twisted aero foil VAWT was designed using SolidWorks 2022 and analyzed through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in ANSYS Mechanical based on the measured wind characteristics. Finally, the prototype was fabricated and experimentally evaluated under field conditions. The assessment revealed significant spatial and seasonal variations in wind characteristics, with Busitema University Hill Top recording the highest and most consistent wind speeds (2.5–8.0 m/s) and a maximum wind power density of 52.4 W/m², making it the most suitable site for wind energy generation. The developed VAWT had a rotor diameter of 0.50 m, rotor height of 1.09 m, and swept area of 0.545 m². CFD simulation predicted mechanical power increasing from 9.4 W to 53.1 W and the power coefficient (Cp) from 0.215 to 0.282. Experimental evaluation showed rotor speed increasing from 241 RPM to 527 RPM as wind speed increased from 2.1 m/s to 4.6 m/s. Voltage and electrical power output also increased with wind speed, with the prototype producing a maximum electrical power output of 12.59 W, demonstrating its capability for small-scale electricity generation. The study concludes that Busitema Hill has adequate wind resources for small-scale electricity generation and that the developed VAWT is technically feasible for decentralized power supply under low- to moderate-wind conditions. Further optimization of the blade geometry, generator system, energy storage integration, and long-term field evaluation is recommended to improve performance and support wider deployment in similar environments.enOther