Recent research highlights the promising potential of airborne wind energy (AWE) and floating offshore wind turbines in the North Sea region, suggesting these innovative technologies could significantly enhance the energy landscape in Europe. Conducted by Hidde Vos from the Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management at Delft University of Technology, the study emphasizes how these novel wind solutions can tap into previously underutilized wind resources and contribute to a more stable power system.
The research indicates that AWE systems, which harness wind energy at higher altitudes, could outperform traditional onshore wind turbines in terms of system-wide benefits. Vos notes, “Onshore AWE outperforms conventional onshore wind regarding system-wide benefits due to higher wind resource availability and distinctive hourly generation profiles.” This means that AWE could provide energy at times when conventional turbines may not be as effective, creating a more reliable energy supply.
Floating wind turbines, which can be deployed in deeper waters where wind resources are typically stronger and more consistent, are also highlighted as a game-changer. The study reveals that these turbines achieve better performance than their conventional counterparts, allowing them to be priced higher while still remaining competitive in the market. The key driver for the deployment of both AWE and floating wind technologies is cost competitiveness, which will be critical as energy markets continue to evolve.
The research employs a sophisticated modeling workflow that assesses wind resources and evaluates future cost and performance scenarios across ten countries in the North Sea. This comprehensive approach allows for a clearer understanding of how these technologies can be integrated into a highly renewable energy system. Vos emphasizes the need for further study in this area, stating, “AWE, in particular, might be able to play a significant role in a climate-neutral European energy supply.”
For businesses and investors, this research opens up new opportunities in the renewable energy sector. Companies involved in technology development, manufacturing, and deployment of wind energy solutions could see substantial growth as demand for innovative energy sources rises. The findings also indicate that addressing the limitations of AWE deployment, particularly regarding power density per ground surface area, could lead to further advancements and commercial viability.
Published in ‘Environmental Research: Energy’, this study presents a compelling case for the integration of AWE and floating wind technologies into Europe’s energy future, aligning with global efforts to transition to more sustainable energy systems. As the urgency for clean energy solutions intensifies, the insights from Vos and his team could shape the strategies of energy providers and policymakers alike.
