Evaluation of the Offshore Wind Energy Potential in the Romanian Coastal Environment of the Black Sea

Abstract

The present work is focused on the analysis of the offshore wind energy potential in the Romanian coastal areas at the Black Sea. A direct comparison of these conditions with those reported in similar sites, where wind parks are planned to be developed, is also performed. In order to cover large marine areas, the wind conditions are evaluated by considering the AVISO satellite measurements, which correspond to the time interval 2010- 2015. This data set is completed by 15-year of reanalysis wind data (2000-2014) coming from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts. Since the turbine rotors operate at higher levels, the main wind parameters were translated to a 80 m height (above sea level), the results being defined in terms of spatial maps or statistical parameters. From the comparison with the offshore wind parks, it is possible to identify what type of project is more appropriate in terms of number of turbines, water depth or distance from the shore. Based on the direct comparisons carried out with the wind conditions of the sites located in the Northern, Baltic or Mediterranean seas, it was noticed that the local conditions seem to present similar values, while in some cases the energy potential is even more significant.