Off shore Wind Power Plant in the Adriatic Sea: An Opportunity for the Croatian Economy

Abstract

The significant growth of renewable energy production in the past decades is present mainly due to the global depletion of fossil fuel reserves. One of interesting and well developed renewable energy technologies are wind turbines which are mainly built onshore. Due to more favorable wind characteristics at sea, off shore wind power plants are an interesting and challenging option for meeting future energy demands. In particular, less turbulent wind with higher average velocity enhances energy production and reduces structural fatigue of wind energy structures. In this study, benefits and drawbacks of off shore wind turbine units and power plants are pointed out. Based on the available climate data, sea depths and existing sea traffic routes, two possible wind power plants, i.e. one with fixed and another with floating turbines, are proposed for installation in the Croatian part of the Adriatic Sea. Benefits for the Croatian shipbuilding industry and its economy are pointed out.