Operating and Extreme weather conditions at Marine Renewable Energy Lab (MaRELab)

Abstract

The co-location of offshore wind turbines and wave energy converters has gained significant interest due to studies demonstrating the benefits of combined power production. When wind and wave technologies work together, the resulting power output is more predictable, less fluctuating, and offers greater continuity compared to their individual operation. However, the impact of thermal winds on nearshore locations, specifically concerning the combination of wind and wave resources, remains poorly understood. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by evaluating the effects of local sea winds and land breeze circulations on wave-wind resources. The researchers propose a methodology to estimate the viability of co-exploitation using various multivariate techniques. The case study focuses on the Marine Renewable Energy Laboratory in Italy and utilizes a comprehensive 42-year hindcast dataset. The researchers identify specific meteo-climatic conditions that favour the optimal combination of wind and wave sources in nearshore areas that represent a particularly attractive opportunity for maximizing power generation and minimizing fluctuations.