Viability of Creating an Offshore Wind Energy Cluster: A Case Study

Helena Junqueira,Radu Godina,João C. O. Matias,Susana Garrido,Margarita Robaina

doi:10.3390/app11010308

Abstract

Considering the advantages associated with the port sector concerning the potential of offshore wind energy, several international ports are aiming to achieve a solid integration in offshore wind energy clusters. This article performs an analysis of several seaports and offshore wind energy clusters in Europe to assess the feasibility of implementing an offshore wind energy cluster in the Port of Aveiro, Portugal. A deep literature review and a case study methodology were performed. Based on the analysis of the offshore energy market, and of the value chain of the company case study (ASM Offshore), it was concluded that the Portuguese market in this sector is not competitive, compared with other international markets. Nevertheless, the development of an offshore wind energy cluster could increase the included companie’s prospects, as well as dispute the growth of other companies associated with this sector. This research is relevant, because there is a lack of research that links the importance of seaports in offshore wind energy projects, in particular with a cluster structure, and because it contributes to knowledge for the development of the Aveiro region and Portugal, based on the exploitation of the renewable energy market and to the increase of related activities.

Highlights

In view of the exponential growth of the world population that has been observed over the last few years [1], the need to produce greater amounts of energy has gradually become a strong social concern
Regarding the type of technology for offshore wind energy production, it was found that fixed-bottom turbines represent the most evolved and have been the most used to produce this type of energy
This paper has examined the feasibility of creating an offshore wind cluster in the seaport of Aveiro

Summary

Introduction

In view of the exponential growth of the world population that has been observed over the last few years [1], the need to produce greater amounts of energy has gradually become a strong social concern. Prospect that the growth in the use of energy will continue to increase, the adoption of renewable energy sources (RES) has become essential. Considering the importance of expanding this type of energy in the energy matrix and its contribution to a more sustainable world, away from the use of fossil fuels, more dedication and research is essential for its growth. Considering the size of the ocean, the use of offshore wind energy can be extended to several areas that are still little explored and may have greater growth potential in relation to other RES. It must be considered that a specific transport of this equipment is necessary for offshore wind farms, making the whole process more complex and expensive

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Results

Conclusion