Features of operation of wind power stations as an supplementary source of electricity for non-traction consumers of railway electric mains

Purpose. Identify the features of operation of wind farms as an auxiliary supplier of electricity for non-traction consumers of railway networks and analyze the main factors that directly affect the use of wind farms due to the random nature of wind flow and additional factors due to the above conditions in different climates.The research methodology is based on modern methods of computational mathematics, statistics and information analysis using modern computer technology.Findings. The need to use renewable energy sources in the power supply systems of non-traction consumers of railway transport is obvious. Given the constant growth of prices and tariffs for electricity in Ukraine, more and more attention is paid to its savings and the search for the cheapest and most affordable alternative sources. The authors consider issues related to the possibility of using additional generation of electricity in the power supply systems of railway transport through the use of wind turbines, including for non-traction consumers. The analysis of wind flow features in some regions of Ukraine was carried out, and the measurement of wind speed in Zaporizhia and Dnipropetrovsk regions was obtained with the help of a compact wind speed sensor manufactured by Micro-Step-MIS LLC (Russia). The obtained values of wind speed were recorded and stored digitally. The received information of the above device was processed. The authors conclude that in the case of using wind turbines as an additional power source in the networks of non-traction consumers of railway power supply systems it is economically advantageous to connect them directly to these networks and fully use all electricity produced by them, reducing its consumption from this power supply system.The originality is that the use of renewable energy sources in the power supply systems of non-traction consumers of railway transport, in particular wind turbines, is proposed.Practical implications. Introduction of wind power plants as an auxiliary supplier of electricity for non-traction consumers of railway power grids in order to minimize electricity costs.Keywords: renewable energy sources, quality of electric energy, wind power plant, power supply networks of railway transport, non-traction consumers of railway electric networks, electricity production, wind speed.