Fundamentals of Ocean Renewable Energy

Chapter 4

Offshore Wind

Abstract

Wind energy is one of the fastest growing renewable energy sectors, with levelized costs of wind energy now comparable to the cost of electricity generated by thermal power stations such as coal and gas. However, due to lower surface roughness, the wind resource is higher offshore, and has further advantages such as lower visual impact. In this chapter, following a general introduction, the components of a wind turbine are introduced. Wind energy resource assessment, which is a crucial part of macro-siting of wind energy projects, is discussed in detail, and applied to a case study of the first offshore wind energy project in the United States—Block Island Wind Farm. Finally, a brief introduction to marine ...