Assessment of Offshore Wind Potential in the Six Countries with Access to the Black Sea
摘要
Renewable energy sources are vital for reducing pollution and combating global warming as fossil fuel supplies diminish and energy consumption rises. Due to its vast, untapped wind resources, the Black Sea region presents a significant opportunity for the development of offshore wind energy exploitation. This study investigates the offshore wind potential at six locations within the bordering nations: Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Ukraine, Russia, and Georgia. The aim is to identify the best sites for wind farm installation. Geographic distribution, wind exposure, and economic relevance were taken into consideration when selecting the sites, which were close to major ports and strategically important in marine trade. Key parameters analyzed include mean wind speed at 100 m altitude, wind variability, power density, and predominant wind direction, utilizing a decade of ERA5 reanalysis data from 2015 to 2024. Results highlight that locations like A1, A2, and A6 exhibit superior wind speeds and power density, making them the most suitable for development. A seasonal analysis reveals that wind energy potential is highest in winter and lowest in summer, influencing energy output predictability. This research underscores the critical role of offshore wind in bolstering energy security, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and increasing renewable energy integration within the national grids of Black Sea coastal states.