Spatial Optimization for Energy Island Location and Cable Routing Considering Offshore Zoning

Abstract

The energy hub concept presents a compelling opportunity to channel electricity from offshore wind farms to the grid, facilitating cross-border energy trading and conversion. However, one of the main challenges lies in the strategic identification of a suitable energy island location and the establishment of an interconnected cable routing path. Part of the complexity arises from the need to navigate offshore zoning regulations and accommodate various spatial uses within the offshore area. This paper exhibits a case study to explore the spatial optimization for a potential offshore energy hub in the North Sea. It aims at finding out an optimal spatial configuration of the offshore energy hub, such that the island location and the associated cable routing do not infringe upon keep-out zones while strategically positioning the hub closer to high-capacity wind farms. To achieve this goal, detailed geographical data incorporating offshore zoning information is leveraged for spatial optimization. The Dijkstra’s algorithm is then applied to identify the optimal island location and cable routing path. The effectiveness of this spatial optimization methodology is demonstrated through a case study involving offshore wind farm sites in the North Sea. Given the real geographical data, simulation results underscore the efficacy of the Dijkstra’s algorithm in determining the optimal energy hub layout. In particular, an optimal spatial design is achieved, based on cable lengths, asset capacities, offshore zoning and island/platform location for a potential offshore energy hub in the North Sea while ensuring compliance with keep-out zoning regulations.