Marine Renewable Energy

With the increase in wind turbine power, the size of the blades is significantly increasing to over 100 m. It is becoming more and more important to optimize the design for the internal layout of large-scale offshore composite wind turbine blades to meet the structural safety requirements while improving the blade power generation efficiency and achieving light weight. In this work, the full-scale internal layout of an NREL 5 MW offshore composite wind turbine blade is elaborately designed via the topology optimization method. The aerodynamic wind loads of the blades were first simulated based on the computational fluid dynamics. Afterwards, the variable density topology optimization method was adopted to perform the internal structure design of the blade. Then, the first and second generation multi-web internal layouts of the blade were reversely designed and evaluated in accordance with the stress level, maximum displacement of blade tip and fatigue life. In contrast with the reference blade, the overall weight of the optimized blade was reduced by 9.88% with the requirements of stress and fatigue life, indicating a better power efficiency. Finally, the vibration modal and full life cycle of the designed blade were analyzed. The design conception and new architecture could be useful for the improvement of advanced wind turbines. Full article

With growing demand for renewable wind energy, the number of offshore wind turbines increased rapidly in recent years. This paper uses the improved Tajimi model and transfer matrix method to analyze the dynamic response of pile group supported offshore wind turbine under wind and wave load. The vibration equation of the structure is established by tower discretization. The calculation result is compared with the numerical simulation result. The horizontal displacement of the structure under loads with different frequencies can be obtained. The wind speed and the foundation impedance are found important to the structure displacement. The pile–pile interaction factor depends on the pile spacing, the pile embedment ratio, and the incidence angle. Full article

In this paper, a maximum energy extraction and tracking strategy for direct-drive wave energy converters (DDWECs) based on back-stepping and sliding mode control strategies are developed. It is well known that the existence of the chattering phenomenon degrades the control performance of conventional sliding mode control (SMC). To mitigate the effects of flutter and external disturbances, a back-stepping sliding model control (BSMC) scheme is proposed. The main features of the proposed methodology are as follows: (1) By using the proposed BSMC, the maximum wave energy of DDWEC can be captured. Moreover, the speed tracking of the permanent magnet linear generator (PMLG), which is a subsystem of DDWEC, tracked in real-time. (2) By virtue of the proposed BSMC, the closed-loop control system is asymptotically stable in finite time. (3) With the superior controllability of the BSMC, it can handle disturbances that the SMC cannot handle. Comprehensive and comparative studies are proved to be superior to the most advanced method Full article

In this study, the viability of harnessing wind energy for offshore oil and gas (O&G) platforms as a micro-grid solution in low wind speed regions to power O&G platforms is explored. However, wind, as a renewable energy, is known to be highly variable and is unable to provide standalone power reliably within a micro-grid solution due to the variation of the wind speed at hub height, which subsequently leads to a variation of the power outcome. Here, a hybrid power generation concept is developed in which one gas turbine generator (GTG) is replaced with a floating horizontal axis wind turbine (WT) system. By setting up this system, the reduction of the maintenance costs of the GTGs and the reduction of fuel gas consumption reduces carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. In addition to this, the fuel gas savings in terms of the business side of such a solution provide a positive revenue impact. In this feasibility study, a technical framework is developed, followed by an economic framework. In the technical framework, wind assessments are performed to obtain the annual energy production for the selected field. Furthermore, an economic framework is established for both conventional and hybrid concepts in two scenarios: greenfield and brownfield, where the incremental net present value (NPV) and levelized cost of energy are calculated. The resultant difference in NPV for hybrid power generation compared to conventional power generation was found to be between 22% and 37%. The levelized cost of energy (LCOE) for WT is USD 165.52/MWh, which is 39% lower than for conventional, gas turbine-only operations. The LCOE for the hybrid approach is lower than for the conventional scenario by 22%. In conclusion, the hybrid micro-grid concept solution can harness wind energy from low wind regions with better economic benefits compared to conventional methods through the proper selection of the WT system, its floating substructure, and efficient micro-grid system for powering oil and gas platforms. Full article

The multi-wind turbine platform technology has the potential to harness the significant source of offshore wind energy in deep waters. However, the wake interference between the turbines on the multi-wind turbine platform can cause a reduction in power production; hence, it is important to study the wake effects in the initial phase of the design. This paper studies the effects of wake interference between the wind turbines on three different platform configurations to find a suitable configuration for the wind turbines on a multi-turbine platform. The analytical Larsen wake model and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are used for evaluating the wake effects. The platform configuration required for the wind turbines is determined based on the results of wake effects, and then a novel platform is designed. The free-floating stability behavior of the multi-wind turbine platform is analyzed using the hydrostatic analysis of the modeled platform. The wave-body interaction between the platform and the waves is predicted using the hydrodynamic analysis. A preliminary cost analysis of the multi-turbine platform concept is evaluated and compared with a single wind turbine floating concept. The results showed that the presented design is a promising concept that can enhance the offshore wind industry. Full article

Parc Tramuntana is the first offshore wind project being promoted in the Catalonian waters, and due to this newness, it has generated a strong social debate surrounding expected environmental and socioeconomic impacts traditionally associated to marine wind farms, as there are no relevant references in this area. The objective of this report is to provide a specific analysis of some of the main potential impacts, based on detailed information and quantitative data, in order to place these impacts in a realistic context and determine their actual magnitude. This analysis is fed by diverse and detailed studies carried out over the last two years to assess the environmental impact of the project, in accordance with current regulations. According to environmental impact assessment, which is based on a standardized methodology, the impact of the project is objectively qualified as MODERATE on vectors such as turbidity and sedimentation, underwater noise, hydrodynamic circulation or the alteration of electromagnetic fields, and NOT SIGNIFICANT on aspects such as the proliferation of invasive exotic species. As this is an ongoing assessment process, this report presents initial conclusions that do not yet address all possible impacts. Nevertheless, the authors stress the importance of framing the debate on offshore wind in Catalonia in the context of the urgency of the climate emergency and its inevitable impacts on the natural environment. Full article

With the rapid development of global offshore wind power, the demand for offshore wind power operation and maintenance is also increasing. This paper analyzes the technology of units, monitoring of deep wind field, and operation and maintenance risks and provides an innovative direction for offshore wind power operation and maintenance. In this study, the innovation of offshore wind power operation and maintenance are discussed in regard to the aspects of operation and maintenance management, the monitoring technology of units and far-reaching wind field monitoring and risks. Combined with information technology and lean management concept, this paper evaluates the development trend and difficulties of data mining and information platforms of offshore wind power operation and maintenance. A far-reaching intelligent operation and maintenance management platform for offshore wind farms is provided and a centralized and intelligent operation and maintenance management mode is explored in order to improve the efficiency and reduce the costs. Through the research on the characteristics of 5G technology, the typical application scenarios of 5G technology in the intelligent operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms are analyzed, which provide a new solution for the efficient operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms. Full article

On-site development of wave energy resources is a promising way to overcome power-shortage problems on islands. It is necessary to select suitable islands to deploy wave power plants, which are influenced by multiple factors related to resources, technology, economy, society, and environment. This study develops a two-stage decision framework to identify feasible islands and determine priority order based on geographic information systems (GIS) and multicriteria decision-making (MCDM). In the exclusion stage, unfeasible marine areas are excluded based on exclusion criteria and feasible island alternatives are identified. In the evaluation stage, alternatives are evaluated by evaluation criteria using the combined weighting method and the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS)-grey relation analysis (GRA) method. As the combined weighting method is based on the fuzzy group decision-making (GDM)-analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the entropy method, it can effectively reduce subjective deviation. The proposed framework is applied in Shandong Province. It identifies 13 inhabited islands feasible for constructing wave power plants, among which Daguan, South Changshan, and Xiaoguan are the optimal ones. Sensitivity analysis is performed to verify the feasibility of the proposed framework. The results show that it is effective and could provide reference for practical engineering. Full article

This paper presents the economic feasibility analysis of a 2 MW Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) power plant in the open cycle. The plant can supply 6.35% of the average annual consumption of the electricity demand located at San Andrés Island (Colombia). On the one hand, the work presents the selection of the place to locate an offshore facility considering the technical viability while, on the other hand, the economic viability analysis is performed. The latter considers two scenarios: one without desalinated water production and another one with desalinated water. In this way, it is intended to first determine its construction’s technical requirements to analyse its economic performance. This approach allows us to have a general idea of the implementation costs and the benefits obtained with this type of plant, for the particular case of San Andrés, an island in the Colombian Caribbean with sustained stress on electricity production and freshwater generation. The results obtained show that the technology is viable and that the investment can be recovered in an adequate time horizon. Full article

China is taking initiative in energy transition to cope with the long-term controversy of its enormous energy consumption, aiming to use less carbon. Wind power, especially offshore wind energy, has become a prevailing alternative due to its low carbon emissions, renewability, competitiveness, and operation security. The layout of a transmission channel is a key consideration in marine project implementation. This paper investigates the technical characteristics, application status, and viable advantages of a conventional AC transmission, voltage source converter-based high-voltage direct current (VSC-HVDC) transmission, gas-insulated line (GIL) transmission, and hybrid HVDC transmission. A component-resolved evaluation model was proposed to estimate the costs to be incurred of four electrical transmission options for offshore wind power along the coast of Eastern China, with technical feasibility and economical considerations. Cost comparisons and component sensitivity analyses were developed with different transmission distances and capacities. Results suggest HVAC transmission and VSC-HVDC are the preferable solutions for present offshore wind farm development in Eastern China, and the economic potential of the hybrid HVDC makes it feasible for future deployment. Some conclusions can be applied in disparate regions across the globe. Full article

Thermal stratification is a common phenomenon in lakes and reservoirs. It has a significant influence on water quality dynamics. The destruction of the thermal stratification of lakes and reservoirs can affect the water environment, improve the water quality and the water environment quality and prevent the occurrence of eutrophication. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) combined with a Eulerian two-phase flow model is used to predict the damage caused by an airlift device to the thermal stratification phenomenon of lake water. The results show that the two devices with different sizes can contribute to a certain exchange of kinetic and thermal energy, affecting the liquid velocity and temperature in the lake water under the condition of different gas velocities. Furthermore, the degree of damage to the thermal stratification phenomenon of lake reservoir is small. However, with the same gas velocity, the device with a guide plate can have a greater impact on the liquid velocity and temperature in the lake water. Further prediction results show that the airlift installed with a guide plate can affect the heat transfer of liquid in the lake and reservoir better and destroy the thermal stratification phenomenon effectively. The quantitative results of model prediction can provide an effective basis for future field scale-up experiments. Full article

The study of wave-structure interactions involving nonlinear forces would often make use of the popular hybrid frequency–time domain method. In the hybrid method, the frequency-domain analysis could firstly provide the reliable and accurate dynamic parameters and responses; then these parameters and responses are transformed to the parameters to establishing the basic time-domain equation. Additionally, with the addition of the required linear and nonlinear forces, the time-domain analysis can be used to solve for the practical problems. However, the transformation from the frequency domain to the time domain is not straightforward, and the implementation of the time-domain equation could become increasingly complicated when different modes of motion are coupled. This research presents a systematic introduction on how to implement the time-domain analysis for floating structures, including the parameter transformations from the frequency domain to the time domain, and the methods for calculating and approximating the impulse functions and the fluid-memory effects, with special attention being paid to the coupling terms among the different motion modes, and the correctness of the time-domain-equation implementation. The main purpose of this article is to provide relevant information for those who wish to build their own time-domain analyses with the open-source hydrodynamic analysis packages, although commercial packages are available for time-domain analyses. Full article

The dynamic ice load of conical offshore wind turbines (OWTs) in cold regions is unclear. The ice force period is the key parameter used to establish an ice force model for conical structures. To obtain ice load data, a field monitoring system was installed on an OWT in a cold region in China. Based on the monitoring data, a new formula for calculating the ice force period of conical structures was established. By comparing the period calculated with this formula and the measured ice force period, it was found that the calculated data generally agreed with the measured data. Then, a random dynamic ice force model for conical OWTs can be established. Based on this ice force model, the ice-induced vibration of an OWT was analyzed with the ANSYS finite element software. The results are in good agreement with the measured data obtained from the OWT in the time and frequency domains. Therefore, the random dynamic ice force model established in this paper can be used to evaluate the ice resistance performance of conical OWTs in cold regions. Full article

There are excellent offshore wind resources in the ocean off the west coast of Taiwan, and renewable offshore wind power has been actively developed in recent years. This study intends to establish a cost-effectiveness assessment model to compare the pollutant emissions and cost benefits of traditional fossil fuel and fuel cells used as the propulsion force of working vessels in Taiwan’s offshore wind farms. According to MARPOL, vessels should use very-low-sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) with sulfur content of less than 0.5 wt. %. Therefore, this study proposes two strategies: changing marine power from VLSFO to ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) and a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). The emission reduction and cost benefit were analyzed in comparison with the original condition when VLSFO was used. The results show that compared with the total cost of VLSFO, the total costs of Strategy ULSD and Strategy PEMFC increase by 7.5% and 51.2%, respectively, over five years. Strategy PEMFC brings environmentally friendly benefits primarily by reducing SO_x, NO_x, HC, PM, and CO₂ emissions by 100%, 97.4%, 91.8%, 81%, and 81.6%, respectively, as compared with VLSFO. The cost–benefit ratio (CBR) of Strategy ULSD was higher than that of Strategy PEMFC in the first three years after improvements were made, and then the trend reversed. Strategy PEMFC is suitable as an alternative marine power source for the medium- and long-term (more than three years), while Strategy ULSD is suitable as a short-term investment for less than three years. Full article

In the context of the decarbonization of the shipping industry, the application of clean energy technologies is a catalyst for decarbonization. With the number of potential clean energy technologies expanding, the uncertainties in terms of technology maturity, policy regulation, and economics make clean energy technologies decision much more difficult. Therefore, it is urgent to establish a clean energy technology selection scenario for the green ship industry to assist shipowners in decision-making. Based on this, a technology selection model based on rough set (RS) and approximate ideal solution ranking (TOPSIS) is constructed. Using RS to reduce the evaluation index and calculate the weight can avoid the one-sidedness of subjective weighting. Using the TOPSIS method to rank alternatives. This paper selects seven clean energy technology alternatives, namely LNG power, LPG power, methanol power, HVO power, pure battery power, hydrogen fuel cell, and ammonia fuel cell, respectively, as the evaluation objects. Taking two types of vessels as examples, it is concluded that LNG power technology is suitable for large coastal ro-ro passenger vessels, and pure battery power technology is suitable for small inland river short-distances vessels. The results are in line with reality, which verifies the scientificity and validity of the proposed model. Full article

This research addressed a need for technical evaluation of the oceanic scenario of Panama for the use of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC). Its bathymetry and location can potentially lead to the exploitation of OTEC, diversifying the energy matrix and helping achieve sustainability. Nevertheless, site selection for OTEC can be a complex task since it involves various alternatives, with different quantitative and qualitative criteria, which may conflict in some cases. Optimization and multiple criteria (MCD) methods have been used lately to address these issues; however, their use is still limited. Here, Analytic Hierarchical Analysis (AHP) is proposed as a MCD method for site selection. Six sites of interest were considered as the alternatives for a plant installment. These sites were chosen, excluding the environmentally and aboriginal protected areas. The quantitative criteria considered were surface and deep-water temperatures, coastline distance, gross and net efficiency. Those variables related to the efficiency, such as the water temperatures, can be considered the most influential, leading to Punta Burica, located on Panama’s Pacific coast, as the best option (96.17%). Full article

Recently, the demand for floating solar power farms in lakes and coasts (rather than on land) has been increasing rapidly. It is important to develop a numerical analysis technique that considers environmental conditions to predict structural stability and accurate motion response while designing a floating solar power farm. In this study, we performed a comparison under conditions similar to those of the Inha University towing tank (IUTT) model test to verify the numerical analysis method. The results revealed that heave and pitch movements were dominant under head sea conditions. Relative behavior occurred because of the hinge connection of each unit, and complex motion characteristics appeared depending on the wave conditions. The numerical method was verified based on the motion response and load of the floating solar farm. The validity of the results was also confirmed. Full article

This research proposes a mooring system for an ocean current generator that is working under the impact of typhoon waves. The turbine and the platform are kept stable at a designed water depth to ensure that the generator remains undamaged and continuously generates electricity under excessive water pressure. In this design, the turbine generator is mounted in front of the floating platform by ropes and withstands the force of ocean currents, while the platform is anchored to the deep seabed with lightweight, high-strength PE ropes. In addition, two pontoons are used to connect the generator and the platform with ropes. When the balance is reached, the depth of the generator and the depth of the platform’s dive can be determined by the length of the ropes. In this study, typhoon irregular wave is represented by the Jonswap wave spectrum. The irregular wave is simulated by six regular waves. The equation of motion of the mooring system is derived. The theoretical solution of the dynamic system is presented to determine the dynamic displacements of the platform, pontoon, turbine and the dynamic tensions of the ropes. The dynamic tensions of the ropes increase with the cross-sectional area of pontoon. The natural frequency of the mooring system depends on the parameters, including the mases of elements, the lengths of ropes and the cross-sectional area of pontoons. In the proposed mooring configuration, the dynamic tension of the rope is far less than the breaking strength of the rope; thus, the ocean turbine is stable, and no water that flows through will be disturbed by the floating platform. Full article

The Central and South Pacific have significant wave energy resources distributed through the region that are currently not being explored. Even though the wave energy resource in the Pacific has been studied, there is limited knowledge on the potential obstacles when inserting this new energy source into a unique and unexplored environment. Pacific Island countries (PICs) have distinctive characteristics that can become barriers to this technology, especially considering that local coastal and marine systems are fundamental for subsistence and local development. Thus, the success of a project relies on local acceptance. The current study developed an integrative conceptual framework for the PICs (ICFPICs) that derived from the integration of the elements of a political, economic, social, technological, environmental and legal (PESTEL) structured approach and further combined with a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) approach to create a matrix that included relevant internal and external factors influencing a project. Four islands were analyzed through the ICFPICs to demonstrate the varying characteristics and challenges in the Pacific environment; the islands were Tubuai (French Polynesia), Viti Levu (Fiji), Rarotonga (Cook Islands), and ‘Eua (Tonga). Applying the ICFPICs to each island shows that Tubuai has significant technological issues, Rarotonga has mostly economic issues, Viti Levu is the most developed island but also has several potential issues in the social sphere, while ‘Eua has the fewest issues and is a viable candidate for further analysis. The ICFPICs can be used by decision makers, project developers, and stakeholders to recognize probable barriers when bringing wave energy technologies to the PICs and make informed decisions during the pre-feasibility stage. Full article

In order to solve the inaccuracy in the calculation of the wellbore pressure distribution caused by large liquid production in the Donghai gas field, the gas–liquid production conditions of the Donghai gas field were simulated with indoor experiments, and the flow patterns for different pipe diameters, different inclinations, and different flow patterns were systematically analyzed using a flow pattern discrimination method, liquid holdup calculation method, and pressure drop calculation method. Using the experimental data, the division methods for different flow patterns were screened. Finally, based on the fact that the change trend for the flow patterns was consistent, the Kaya–Sarica–Brill method was selected to establish the flow pattern discrimination formula. According to the calculation method for the Mukherjee and Brill (M–B) liquid holdup, the M–B model was re-established according to a 75 mm pipe diameter and 60 mm pipe diameter using the instantaneous liquid holdup measured in the laboratory. Through the comparison and analysis of the measured data and the calculated data for the Beggs and Brill (B–B_ pressure drop model under the same working conditions, it was found that when the B–B model was applied to different angles and different gas–liquid ratios, the error decreased with an increase in the angle and increased with a decrease in the gas–liquid ratio. After verifying the correlation of different dimensionless numbers that can characterize the gas–liquid ratio, it was considered that the introduction of the Reynolds number into the original model could greatly improve the accuracy of the calculation, so a new pressure drop calculation model was established. The new pressure drop calculation model takes into account the two parameters of the well deviation angle and gas–liquid ratio. The accuracy was greatly improved, as verified by field measurements in four wells. Full article

As the most reliable alternative energy source for traditional fuel engines, natural gas has been widely used in inland river marine engines. The natural gas engine is faced with the problem of increased cyclic variations under the condition of lean combustion. In this paper, a multi-point injection spark ignition natural gas engine is tested under different lean burn degrees to investigate the correlation between different parameters and cyclic variation, including accumulated heat release, combustion phase and burning rate. The purpose is to clarify the optimized technical route for marine natural gas engine. A new method to quantify the correlation between parameters and cyclic variation is proposed. The maximum explosion pressure of combustion and its phase are used as the parameters to characterize the cyclic variation. Different parameters are then nonlinearly fitted to it, and the R-S value of the fitting is used to quantify the correlation between parameters and cyclic variation. The results show that the correlation between accumulated heat release and cyclic variation is less than 10%. The main factors causing the cyclic variation are the fluctuation of ignition delay and initial flame propagation, whose correlation with cyclic variation is over 80% and 70%, respectively. Full article

Multiple wave energy converter (WEC) buoys can be used to establish a WEC array-powered microgrid collectively forming a Marine Energy Grid (MEG). An oceanic domain with gravity waves will have significant spatial variability in phase, causing the power produced by a WEC array to have high peak-to-average ratios. Minimizing these power fluctuations reduces the demand for large energy storage by WEC array-powered DC microgrids while also reducing losses in the undersea cable to the shore. Designs that reduce energy storage requirements are desirable to reduce deployment and maintenance costs. This work demonstrates that polyphase power in conjunction with an energy storage system can be used to maintain constant power. This work shows that an N WEC array geometry can be designed to reduce the energy storage requirements needed to mitigate the power fluctuations if the WEC array produces constant, polyphase power. Additionally, the conditions that identify the wave frequencies and control the effort needed to produce polyphase power are developed. This paper also shows that increasing the number of WECs in an array reduces aggregate power fluctuations. Finally, WEC array power profiles are investigated using simulation results to verify the mathematical conditions developed for the three and six WEC cases. Full article

An investigation of the effects of wind gusts on the directly interconnected wind generators is reported, and techniques toward the mitigation of the wind gust negative influences have been proposed. Using a directly interconnected system approach, wind turbine generators are connected to a single synchronous bus or collection grid without the use of power converters on each turbine. This bus can then be transformed for transmission onshore using High Voltage Alternating Current, Low-Frequency Alternating Current or High Voltage Direct Current techniques with shared power conversion resources onshore connecting the farm to the grid. Analysis of the potential for instability in transient conditions on the wind farm, for example, caused by wind gusts is the subject of this paper. Gust magnitude and rise time/fall time are investigated. Using pitch control and the natural damping of the high inertial offshore system, satisfactory overall system performance and stability can be achieved during these periods of transience. Full article

The Taiwan Strait, to the west of Taiwan, is rich in wind energy resources and has the greatest offshore wind power potential in the world. Therefore, Taiwan has been actively expanding its offshore wind power industry in this area in recent years and expects to achieve the total installed capacity to 15.6 GW by 2035. Due to the large vessel traffic flow in Western Taiwan’s sea area, wind farms will inevitably reduce the navigable space and shadow some existing marine aids to navigation, thus worsening navigation safety. An approach using a fault tree analysis was used to carry out analysis of collision risk between ship-to-ship and ship-to-turbine. The vessel density distribution and traffic flow within the open sea of offshore wind farms would further increase to curtail the available navigable space. The shadowing effects along navigation channels would thereafter be worsened to raise the probability of collision risks in the sea. The results of the fault tree analysis revealed that if the ship is out of control, the time allowed to provide assistance is rather short, leading to the increase of collision risk extent between ships and wind turbines. Moreover, the study also found that unfit functions of the Vessel Traffic Service System and navigation aids and frequently and arbitrarily crossing the navigation channel of fishery vessels are the main causes of ship collisions. In order to effectively improve the navigation safety, competitive strategies for navigation safety are investigated and evaluated in this study. These strategies include making a complete plan for utilizing the whole sea, integrating the offshore vessel traffic service and management system, providing remote pilotage services, and building salvage vessels. The above promising strategies would enhance the navigation safety within the open sea. Collision risk might occur once marine accident occurs and no salvage vessel is available. Full article

The topics of zero-emission/energy buildings and electric mobility are increasingly being discussed as solutions to alleviate the environmental burden caused by energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in both sectors. This study investigates a zero-energy hotel building supported by a hybrid ocean renewable energy system, which interacts with several zero-emission electric boats. Nine different combinations of floating photovoltaics (FPV) and wave energy converters (WEC) are investigated to compensate for their different fluctuations and the stochasticity of energy generation. Using TRNSYS 18 to perform modeling and simulation, a comprehensive techno-economic-environmental analysis of the hybrid system was conducted. The results indicate that when the total annual generation ratios of WEC and FPV are 76% and 24%, respectively, this combination can achieve the best energy weighted matching index (WMI). The WMI reached its maximum (0.703) when 16 boats were sailing at 15 km/h for a distance of 7.5 km. However, increasing the number of boats to 16 does not help improve economic returns or reduce the annual operational equivalent CO₂ emission factor of the hybrid system. Depending on the maximum number of electric boats designed for this study, the non-dominated WMI would be limited to 0.654. Full article

This research proposes a mooring design which keeps the turbine ocean current, static, balanced, and fixed at a predetermined depth under water, to ensure that the ocean current generator can effectively use current to generate electricity, and that the water pressure remains adequate value before critical pressure damage occurs. In this design, the turbine generator, which withstands the force of ocean currents, is mounted in front of a floating platform by ropes, and the platform is anchored to the deep seabed with light-weight high-strength PE ropes. In addition, a pontoon is connected to the ocean current generator with a rope. The balance is reached by the ocean current generator weight, floating pontoon, and the tension of the ropes which are connected between the generator and floating platform. Therefore, both horizontal and vertical forces become static and the depth can be determined by the length of the rope. Because the floating platform and pontoons on the water surface are significantly affected by waves, the two devices subjected to the wave exciting forces are further affected by the movement of the platform, pontoons, turbines, and the tensions of the ropes. Among them, the exciting forces depend on the operating volume of the two devices. Moreover, there is a phase difference between the floating platform and the pontoon under the action of the waves. In this study, the linear elastic model is used to simulate the motion equation of the overall mooring system. A theoretical solution of the static and dynamic stability analysis of the mooring system is proposed. The dynamic behaviors of the turbine, the floating platform, the pontoon, and the tension of the rope under the effects of waves and ocean currents are investigated. The study found the relationship of the phase difference and the direction difference of waves and ocean currents, the wavelength, and the length of the rope between the carrier and the turbine. It was found that the phase difference has a great influence on the dynamic behaviors of the system. The length of the rope can be adjusted to avoid resonance and reduce the rope tension. In addition, a buffer spring can be used to reduce the dynamic tension of the rope significantly to ensure the safety and life of the rope. Full article

Natural gas hydrate is one of the most important clean energies and part of carbon cycle, due to the least carbon content. Natural gas hydrates depend on high pressure and low temperatures, located under seabed or permafrost. Small changes in temperature and pressure may lead gas hydrates to separate into water and gas, commonly as methane. As a powerful greenhouse gas, methane is much stronger than carbon dioxide. Therefore, it is necessary to detect the gas hydrates stable zone (GHSZ) before the methane gas escapes from GHSZ. Marine controlled source electromagnetic method (CSEM) is a useful tool to detect gas hydrate in offshore. The results from 3D CSEM method are a resistivity cube to describe the distribution of gas hydrates. In order to study the detectability of CSEM method, we simulate the sensitivity and resolution of marine CSEM synthetic data. By using the sensitivity and resolution, a simple statement may be quickly judged on the existence and occurrence range of the natural gas hydrate. In this paper, we compare the resolution of marine CSEM method with various transverse resistance. This information may help researchers find out whether the GHSZ exists or not. Full article

This study proposes the design of a tidal turbine station keeping system based on the adoption of a tensioned mooring system. Damping is introduced to investigate its effect on the reduction in the peak load experienced by tidal turbines during their operational lives in high-energy wave–current environments. A neutrally buoyant turbine is supported using a tensioned cable-based mooring system, where tension is introduced using a buoy fully submersed in water. The loads on the turbine rotor blades and buoy are calculated using a wave and current-coupled model. A modelling algorithm is proposed based on inverted pendulums, which respond to various sea state conditions, to study the behaviour of the system as well as the loads on blades. The results indicate that the tensioned mooring system reduces the peak thrust on the turbine and validates the applicability of the model. Full article

Biofouling is an important factor to consider when calculating the energetic efficiency of tidal farms. Despite the fact that biofouling effects have been widely investigated in the past for naval applications, very few studies concern tidal turbines. This paper proposes a numerical approach to assess the impact of biofouling on tidal turbines, which is efficient for testing many configurations. Two turbulence models are tested (RANS k-ω SST and LES Smagorinsky) for the motionless blade case to validate them. Then we chose to use the Smagorinsky model for the case of a complete tidal turbine rotor with realistically fouled blades. The pressure coefficient is strongly affected by the barnacle in the motionless blade case and the power coefficient is slightly degraded in the complete rotor case. Motionless blade cases do not represent the real biofouling behaviour for two reasons. First, sessile species settle in the down flow part of the chord where their impact is less important. Then, the surrounding turbulence provoked by the blades rotation in the rotor case reduces the impact of biofouling. In the wake, biofouling generates small vortexes that propagate into the larger ones, causing them to spread their energy. Full article

Due to the extreme marine operating environment, the remoteness from the maintenance base, and the expensive specialized accessibility and overhaul equipment needed (e.g., barges, boats, ships, and vessels), offshore O&M costs are greater than those for onshore-based installations. In the operation of wind farms, the main challenges are related to sudden and unexpected failures and downtimes. This paper has three main objectives. The first is to compare and optimize implementation techniques for maintenance strategies. The second is to analyze the cost-benefit of each maintenance strategy model. The third objective is to demonstrate the optimization and effectiveness of maintenance procedures and strategies recreated with stochastic and probabilistic life cycle cost (LCC) models, depending upon the degree of reliability and the maintenance process for offshore wind farms. The cost of operation and maintenance is directly dependent on failure rates, spare parts costs, and the time required by technicians to perform each task in the maintenance program. Calculations for each case study, with either light vessel/transfer boats (Alternative 1) or oilfield support vessels (Alternative 2), focused on the operational costs for transportation. In addition, each case study demonstrated which maintenance conditions and strategies are operational and optimal, and their corresponding cost–risk impacts. Results from this paper suggest that O&M costs are highly correlated with maintenance round frequency (offshore trips) and the operating costs for transportation by light vessel/transfer boat (CTV) and oil-field support vessel (FSV). The paper analyzes cumulative lifecycle costs and finds that for long-term life cycles (25 years), the implement of light vessels (Alternative 1) is more suitable and cost-effective. In contrast, oilfield support vessels (Alternative 2) are more expensive to operate, but they guarantee major capabilities, as well as the advantage of achieving the access levels need to efficiently operate. According to the results obtained by the outcome analysis, it can be concluded that the implementation of light vessels (Alternative 1) shows a lower overall LCC (<million $), which is mainly due to the fact that corrective maintenance and minor repairs are less costly. It should be noted that the cost of major repair operations with light vessels in Alternative 1 is still less than the high costs for minor repairs in Alternative 2 (with FSV). Full article

As a form of clean and low-carbon green energy, offshore wind power occupies an important position in the global energy structure. With the rapid development of the wind power industry, wind power projects gradually develop from offshore to far-offshore sea areas. The multi-bucket jacket foundation is a considerable foundation type for far off-shore projects, but high installation costs involving ship transportation with parted components and field installation has significantly hindered its wide application. In this study, based on a 6.7-MW triple-bucket jacket foundation (TBJF) project of a deep-sea wind farm in China, a new integrated wet-towing method of “jacket + triple-bucket foundation” composite structure was proposed, which is suitable for far long-distance transportation of far-offshore applications. The static-model test of both self-stability and wet-towing stability was conducted. Based on the test and the numerical results, the natural period of the foundation for different draft depths in hydrostatic water and the stability for different eccentric loads were first evaluated. Then, the effects of different wet-towing modes and sea conditions on the stability of the TBJF were investigated. Finally, the optimal wet-towing mode and applicable sea conditions for the TBJF structure were proposed. Full article

As most existing experimental studies on plate anchors were carried out in uniform clay, a centrifuge model study is presented in this paper to investigate the pull-out behaviour of plate anchors in normally consolidated clay, which is not uncommon in offshore seabed. Horizontal and inclined anchors with different embedment depths and aspect ratios (length to width) are considered. The soil movement pattern around the plate anchor is evaluated from high-resolution photographs taken during the tests employing the Particle Image Velocimetry technique. The separation mechanism at the plate-soil interface is hence identified. The significant contribution of suction towards the ultimate pull-out capacity of a plate anchor is quantified by monitoring the soil resistance and the pore pressure beneath the anchor base under undrained condition. By comparing the pull-out responses of horizontal and inclined anchors, the effect of anchor inclination on the anchor capacity and failure mechanism is evaluated. Full article

There is a huge energy demand from offshore renewable energy resources. To maximize the use of various renewable energy sources, a combined floating energy system consisting of different types of energy devices is an ideal option to reduce the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) by sharing the infrastructure of the platform and enhancing the power production capacity. This study proposed a combined concept of energy systems by combing a heave-type wave energy converter (WEC) with a semisubmersible floating wind turbine. In order to investigate the power performance and dynamic response of the combined concept, coupled aero-hydro-servo-elastic analysis was carried out using the open-source code F2A, which is based on the coupling of the FAST and AQWA tools by integrating all the possible environmental loadings (e.g., aerodynamic, hydrodynamic). Numerical results obtained by AQWA are used to verify the accuracy of the coupled model in F2A in predicting dynamic responses of the combined system. The main hydrodynamic characteristics of the combined system under typical operational conditions were examined, and the calculated responses (motions, mooring line tension and produced wave power) are discussed. Additionally, the effect of aerodynamic damping on the dynamic response of the combined system was examined and presented. Moreover, a second fully coupled analysis model was developed, and its response predictions were compared with the predictions of the model developed with F2A in order for the differences of the calculated responses resulted by the different modeling techniques to be discussed and explained. Finally, the survivability of the combined concept has been examined for different possible proposed survival modes. Full article

To understand the formation mechanism and evolution process of the perpendicular cavitation vortex (PCV) of an axial flow pump for off-design conditions, turbulent cavitating flows were numerically investigated using the rotation curvature-corrected shear stress transport (SST-CC) turbulence model and the Zwart–Gerber–Belamri cavitation model. In this work, the origin and evolution of a PCV were analyzed through a high-speed photography experiment and numerical simulation. The results showed that the PCV came from a secondary tip leakage vortex (S-TLV) and was aggregated by the action of the re-entrant jet, combined with the cavitation bubbles driven by the radial flow to form the cavitation vortex (CV). With the joint action of leakage jet lifting and TLV entrainment, the PCV was reoriented and gradually became perpendicular to the chord direction. Then, the PCV and TLV collided, mixed, and entrained, which formed a strong pressure pulsation. The PCV was gradually divided into upper and lower parts. One part was combined with the residual part of the TLV and flowed to the next blade, and the other part flowed out of the impeller area along the axial direction. At the same time, the generation, evolution, and dissipation of the PCV formed high pulsation amplitudes and frequencies in the middle and rear above the blade suction. Full article

In this paper, a novel model based on the boundary element method (BEM) is presented for the hydrodynamic analysis of floating twin-hull structures carrying photovoltaic panels, supporting the study of wave responses and their effects on power performance in variable bathymetry regions. The analysis is restricted to two spatial dimensions for simplicity. The method is free of any mild-slope assumptions. A boundary integral representation is applied for the near field in the vicinity of the floating body, which involved simple (Rankine) sources, while the far field is modeled using complete (normal-mode) series expansions that are derived using separation of variables in the constant depth half-strips on either side of the middle, non-uniform domain, where the depth exhibited a general variation, overcoming a mild bottom-slope assumption. The numerical solution is obtained by means of a low-order panel method. Numerical results are presented concerning twin-hull floating bodies of simple geometry lying over uniform and sloping seabeds. With the aid of systematic comparisons, the effects of the bottom slope and curvature on the hydrodynamic characteristics (hydrodynamic coefficients and responses) of the floating bodies are illustrated and discussed. Finally, the effects of waves on the floating PV performance are presented, indicating significant variations of the performance index ranging from 0 to 15% depending on the sea state. Full article

This paper presents a probabilistic framework for updating the structural reliability of offshore wind turbine substructures based on digital twin information. In particular, the information obtained from digital twins is used to quantify and update the uncertainties associated with the structural dynamics and load modeling parameters in fatigue damage accumulation. The updated uncertainties are included in a probabilistic model for fatigue damage accumulation used to update the structural reliability. The updated reliability can be used as input to optimize decision models for operation and maintenance of existing structures and design of new structures. The framework is exemplified based on two numerical case studies with a representative offshore wind turbine and information acquired from previously established digital twins. In this context, the effect of updating soil stiffness and wave loading, which constitute two highly uncertain and sensitive parameters, is investigated. It is found that updating the soil stiffness significantly affects the reliability of the joints close to the mudline, while updating the wave loading significantly affects the reliability of the joints localized in the splash zone. The increased uncertainty related to virtual sensing, which is employed to update wave loading, reduces structural reliability. Full article

This research proposes the design of a mooring system that allows the floating platform to stably dive deep enough to prevent damage induced by typhoon waves. The design principle of the mechanism is that the submarined floating platform with negative buoyancy is connected to a pontoon with positive buoyancy. The diving depth of the floating platform is determined by the rope length. If the static equilibrium of the two forces is satisfied, the diving depth will be kept. If the diving depth of the floating platform is enough, the platform will not be directly damaged by the wave impact. In reality, the system will be greatly subjected to the typhoon wave and the ocean current. The stability of the system and the dynamic tension of the rope must be significantly concerned. In this study, the linear elastic model of the mooring system composed of a floater platform, towed parachute, pontoon, traction rope, and mooring foundation is derived. The theoretical solution of the static and dynamic stability analysis of the mooring system is proposed. The dynamic behaviors of the floating platform and pontoon, and the tension of the rope under the effects of waves and ocean currents, are investigated. It is discovered that the buffer spring helps reduce the tension of the rope. The proposed protection procedure can avoid the damage of the floating platform and the mooring line, due to Typhoon wave impact. Full article

The shaftless ducted turbine (abbreviated as SDT), as an extraordinary innovation in tidal current power generation applications, has many advantages, and a wide application prospect. The structure of an SDT resembles a ducted turbine (abbreviated as DT), as both contain blades and a duct. However, there are some structural differences between a DT and a SDT, which can cause significant discrepancy in the hydrodynamic characteristics and flow features. The present work compares the detailed hydrodynamic-energy loss characteristics of a DT and a SDT by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), performed by solving the 3D steady incompressible Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations in combination with the Menter’s Shear Stress Transport (SST $k-\omega$) turbulence model and entropy production model. The results show the SDT features a higher power level at low tip speed ratio ($TSR$) and a potential reduction in potential flow resistance and disturbance with respect to the DT. Moreover, a detail entropy production analysis shows the energy loss is closely related to the flow separation and the reverse flow, and other negative flow factors. The entropy production of the SDT is lessened than that of the DT at different $TSR$. Unlike the DT, the SDT allows a large mass flow of water to leak through the open-center structure, which plays an important role in improving the wake structure and avoiding the negative flow along the central axis. Full article

Hydraulic power take-off (HPTO) is considered to be one of the most effective power take-off schemes for wave energy conversion systems (WECs). The HPTO unit can be constructed using standard hydraulic components that are readily available from the hydraulic industry market. However, the construction and operation of the HPTO unit are more complex rather than other types of power take-off, as many components parameters need to be considered during the optimization. Generator damping, hydraulic motor displacement, hydraulic cylinder and accumulator size are among the important parameters that influence the HPTO performance in generating usable electricity. Therefore, the influence of these parameters on the amount of generated electrical power from the HPTO unit was investigated in the present study. A simulation study was conducted using MATLAB/Simulink software, in which a complete model of WECs was developed using the Simscape fluids toolbox. During the simulation, each parameters study of the HPTO unit were separately manipulated to investigate its effects on the WECs performance in five different sea states. Finally, the simulated result of the effect of HPTO parameters on the amount of generated electrical power from the HPTO unit in different sea states is given and discussed. Full article

Wave energy is one of the most promising renewable energies available with its very large resource. The waves generated by the wind field are steadier than the wind field itself, rendering wave energy more consistent than wind energy. It is also more predictable than wind and solar. Wave energy is making continuous progress towards commercialisation, and thanks to an increasing number of deployments at sea, the sector is increasing the understanding of the costs and economies of these projects. No wave energy converter has been demonstrated to be commercially viable, and it is yet to be proven that wave energy can contribute to the renewable energy mix. In this context, and in order to find an economically viable solution for exploiting wave energy, it is important to assess the economic potential of a particular concept throughout the entire technological development process. At early development stages, this assessment can be challenging and present large uncertainties. Notwithstanding, it is important to perform the economic assessment already at the early stages in order to identify possible bottlenecks or potential improvements or modifications of a concept. This work presents guidance for the economic evaluation of a wave energy concept at an early development stage by setting up the economic frame based on a target LCoE. It involves the understanding of the entry cost to be achieved for a specific target market and evaluating the breakdown of costs based on a detailed technology agnostic database of costs. The guidance is then applied to a new type of wave energy converter, in which the primary coupling with the waves is through hydrodynamic lift forces. Full article

Ocean energy is a relevant source of clean renewable energy, and as it is still facing challenges related to its above grid-parity costs, tariffs intended to support in a structured and coherent way are of great relevance and potential impact. The logistics and marine operations required for installing and maintaining these systems are major cost drivers of marine renewable energy projects. Planning the logistics of marine energy projects is a highly complex and intertwined process, and to date, limited advances have been made in the development of decision support tools suitable for ocean energy farm design. The present paper describes the methodology of a novel, opensource, logistic and marine operation planning tool, integrated within DTOceanPlus suite of design tools, and responsible for producing logistic solutions comprised of optimal selections of vessels, port terminals, equipment, as well as operation plans, for ocean energy projects. Infrastructure selection logistic functions were developed to select vessels, ports, and equipment for specific projects. A statistical weather window model was developed to estimate operation delays due to weather. A vessel charter rate modeling approach, based on an in-house vessel database and industry experience, is described in detail. The overall operation assumptions and underlying operating principles of the statistical weather window model, maritime infrastructure selection algorithms, and cost modeling strategies are presented. Tests performed for a case study based a theoretical floating wave energy converter produced results in good agreement with reality. Full article

As the use of fossil fuels becomes more and more restricted there is a need for alternative fuels also at sea. For short sea distance travel purposes, batteries may be a solution. However, for longer distances, when there is no possibility of recharging at sea, batteries do not have sufficient capacity yet. Several projects have demonstrated the use of compressed hydrogen (CH₂) as a fuel for road transport. The experience with hydrogen as a maritime fuel is very limited. In this paper, the similarities and differences between liquefied hydrogen (LH₂) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a maritime fuel will be discussed based on literature data of their properties and our system knowledge. The advantages and disadvantages of the two fuels will be examined with respect to use as a maritime fuel. Our objective is to discuss if and how hydrogen could replace fossil fuels on long distance sea voyages. Due to the low temperature of LH₂ and wide flammability range in air these systems have more challenges related to storage and processing onboard than LNG. These factors result in higher investment costs. All this may also imply challenges for the LH₂ supply chain. Full article

With the rapid development of renewable energy technology, marine current energy is treated as the most desirable form of ocean energies. Due to the nature of marine current energy, simple structure, high reliability, and good control performance are the primary consideration for the energy management strategy. This paper proposes an energy management control strategy based on rules to compensate for the fluctuating power caused by tidal motion. The hybrid energy storage system composed of vanadium redox flow battery (VRB) is applied to reallocate power. Supercapacitor banks (SCBs) are applied as the auxiliary power source to absorb or release the required power according to energy management strategy based on control rules in the marine current power system. SCB makes the grid-connected power track the grid command power and also improves the operational efficiency of the vanadium redox flow battery (VRB). VRB compensates for the low-frequency fluctuating power caused by tidal motion and plays an important role in compensating for the difference in power between the grid-connected power and the grid command power to ensure the reliability of the marine current power system. A simulation model of a 3 MW marine current power system is built to verify the effectiveness of the energy management strategy based on the real marine current velocity data. Full article

The aerodynamic performance of the floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) is obviously affected by the motion of the platform, and becomes much more complicated considering the effect of tower shadow. In view of this, this paper aims at investigating the aerodynamic performance of the floating offshore wind turbine with and without a tower under the three most influential motions (surge, pitch and yaw) by computational fluid dynamic (CFD). The results show that the power of the wind turbine is reduced by 1.58% to 2.47% due to the tower shadow effect under the three motions, and the pressure difference distribution is most obviously interfered by the tower shadow effect under yaw motion and concentrates at the root and tip of the blade. In addition, the degree of interference of the tower shadow effect on the wake flow field is different under the three motions, resulting in a more complex wake structure. These conclusions can provide a theoretical basis and technical reference for the optimal design of floating offshore wind turbines. Full article

How to improve the power generation of wave energy converters (WEC) has become one of the main research objectives in wave energy field. This paper illustrates a framework on the use of back propagation (BP) neural network in predicting capture power of the frustum of a cone shaped floating body. Mathematical model of single floating body is derived, and radius, semi-vertical angle, mass, submergence depth, power take-off (PTO) damping coefficient, and stiffness coefficient are identified as key variables. Commercial software ANSYS-AQWA is used for numerical simulations to obtain hydrodynamic parameters, and then capture power is calculated by these parameters. A database containing 100 samples is established by Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) method, and a simple feature study is conducted. A BP neural network model with high accuracy is designed and trained for predictions based on built database. The results show that forecasting results and desired outputs are in great agreement with error percentage not greater than 4%, correlation coefficient (CC) greater than 0.9, P value close to 1, and root mean square error (RMSE) less than 139 W. The proposed method provides a guideline for designers to identify basic parameters of the floating body and system damping coefficient. Full article

The world has a target of achieving 100% renewable energy by the end of the century. This paper presents a case study to establish a new floating photovoltaic park (FPV) in Egyptian dams. In Egypt, two hydroelectric dams, namely High Dam and Aswan Reservoir, together produce 2.65 GW in the Upper-Egypt region. The addition of 5 MW FPV for each dam is simulated using the Helioscope software application. A comparison between the performance of the dams with and without adding the FPV is presented in terms of the evaporation rate and total produced energy. A comparison between different types of FPV, namely polycrystalline, thin film and mono-crystalline in the two dams are also presented. The results show that installing FPV in the Egyptian dams will drive the dams to better performance in terms of carbon dioxide reduction, water-saving from reducing evaporation and increasing hydropower generation. Full article

Wave energy converters (WECs) usually require reactive power for increased levels of energy conversion, resulting in the need for more complex power take-off (PTO) units, compared to WECs that do not require reactive power. A WEC without reactive power produces much less energy, though. The concept of Variable Shape Buoy Wave Energy Converters (VSB WECs) is proposed to allow continuous shape-change aiming at eliminating the need for reactive power, while converting power at a high level. The proposed concept involves complex and nonlinear interactions between the device and the waves. This paper presents a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) tool that is set up to simulate VSB WECs, using the ANSYS 2-way fluid–structure interaction (FSI) tool. The dynamic behavior of a VSB WEC is simulated in this CFD-based Numerical Wave Tank (CNWT), in open sea conditions. The simulation results show that the tested device undergoes a significant deformation in response to the incoming waves, before it reaches a steady-state behavior. This is in agreement with a low-fidelity dynamic model developed in earlier work. The resulting motion is significantly different from the motion of a rigid body WEC. The difference in the motion can be leveraged for better energy capture without the need for reactive power. Full article

Although the technologies involved in converting saline gradient energy (SGE) are rapidly developing, few studies have focused on evaluating possible environmental impacts. In this work, the environmental impacts of a hypothetical 50 kW RED plant installed in La Carbonera Lagoon, Yucatan, Mexico, are addressed. The theoretical support was taken from a literature review and analysis of the components involved in the pressure retarded osmosis (PRO) and reverse electrodialysis (RED) technologies. The study was performed under a three-stage scheme (construction, operation, and dismantling) for which the stress-inducing factors that can drive changes in environmental elements (receptors) were determined. In turn, the possible modifications to the dynamics of the ecosystem (responses) were assessed. Since it is a small-scale energy plant, only local impacts are expected. This study shows that a well-designed SGE plant can have a low environmental impact and also be of benefit to local ecotourism and ecosystem conservation while contributing to a clean, renewable energy supply. Moreover, the same plant in another location in the same system could lead to huge modifications to the flows and resident times of the coastal lagoon water, causing great damage to the biotic and abiotic environment. Full article

The Western Mediterranean basin is a busy route by Short Sea Shipping with an important route between Barcelona (Spain) and Genoa (Italy), where climatic patterns show similarities but vary during the year. One essential topic for Short Sea Shipping competitiveness is the time because distances use to be covered in approximately 24–30 h. To optimize the transit time, meteorological variables must be kept in mind. In this contribution, we compare data collected by buoys and data simulated using the SIMROUTE (ship weather routing software), to draw a map of wave tendencies during the year. The resulting map of the investigation shows the wave height in percent. The results can be used to optimize the existing routes between Barcelona and Genoa improving his competitiveness and safety. Full article

Suction Bucket Jackets (SBJs) need to be fundamentally designed to avoid rocking modes of vibration about the principal axes of the set of foundations and engineered towards sway-bending modes of tower vibration. Whether or not such type of jackets exhibit rocking modes depends on the vertical stiffness of the caissons supporting them. This paper therefore derives closed form solutions for vertical stiffness in three types of ground profiles: linear, homogenous, and parabolic. The expressions are applicable to suction caissons having an aspect ratio (depth: diameter) between 0.2 and 2 (i.e., 0.2 < L/D < 2). The work is based on finite element analysis followed by non-linear regression. The derived expressions are then validated and verified using studies available in literature. Finally, an example problem is taken to demonstrate the application of the methodology whereby fundamental natural frequency of SBJ can be obtained. These formulae can be used for preliminary design and can also be used to verify rigorous finite element analysis during detailed design. Full article