In the vast, untapped expanses of the ocean, a new frontier for renewable energy is taking shape. Offshore wind power plants are poised to become a significant player in the global energy mix, but their development comes with unique challenges. A groundbreaking study published by Felipe J. Lachovicz from the Institute of Technology for Development (Lactec) in Curitiba, Brazil, offers a novel approach to optimizing the electrical balance of plant (EBOP) for these offshore giants, potentially revolutionizing how we plan and build these projects.
Offshore wind farms are complex systems, involving intricate networks of cables, substations, and transmission lines. The EBOP, which includes all the electrical components excluding the wind turbines themselves, accounts for a substantial portion of the installation costs. Lachovicz’s research, published in IEEE Access, focuses on modeling the EBOP to help developers make informed decisions, optimize solutions, and ultimately, reduce expenses.
The study introduces a comprehensive approach to modeling the EBOP, considering factors such as inter-array cable routing and sizing, the number and size of high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) and high-voltage direct current (HVDC) export cables, reactive power compensation, and both offshore and onshore equipment. “By optimizing these components, we can significantly reduce the levelized cost of energy, making offshore wind more competitive,” Lachovicz explains.
One of the standout features of this approach is its consideration of the physical dimensions and weight of offshore and onshore substation components. This information is crucial for planning further steps, such as constructibility and foundation design. The model is part of a software called CPE-Offshore, designed to support decision-making for Brazilian offshore wind farms, but its principles can be applied globally.
To demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach, Lachovicz used a generic 1920 MW Brazilian wind farm located 65 km from shore as a case study. The results were promising, showing that the model can handle different numbers of offshore substations and provide valuable insights for various plant capacities and distances to the coast.
The study also conducted a sensitivity analysis, exploring reactor combinations and cost comparisons between HVAC and HVDC systems. The results indicated a break-even distance of up to 180 km, providing a clear guideline for developers on when to consider HVDC systems for their projects.
So, what does this mean for the future of offshore wind? Lachovicz’s approach could significantly impact how we plan and build these projects, making them more cost-effective and efficient. As the world continues to seek sustainable energy solutions, this research could play a pivotal role in harnessing the power of the wind, both in Brazil and beyond. The study’s findings, published in IEEE Access, offer a beacon of innovation in the energy sector, guiding developers towards a more sustainable and economically viable future.