Winds of Change: A Study on the Resource Viability of Offshore Wind Energy in Montenegro

Abstract

The energy produced from renewable sources (solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and biomass) provides direct access to clean and safe energy. Offshore wind energy, generated through wind farms, has traditionally relied on fixed structures, whereas innovative floating structures have been commercially applied since 2017. This study investigates offshore areas in Montenegro suitable for wind farm construction. Research on average annual wind speeds has successfully identified a surface area deemed suitable for constructing a wind farm in the Montenegrin part of the Adriatic Sea. Analysis of available bathymetric databases has pinpointed technical solutions for the supporting structures of wind turbines required to construct an offshore wind farm. Applying an assessment method to the defined surface of Montenegrin waters, seven blocks have been identified as suitable for wind farm construction. The research results indicate that wind farms can be built in Montenegrin waters with a technical potential corresponding to a total capacity of 2299.794 MW, which includes 2034.48 MW for floating structures, 126.759 MW for fixed structures, and 138.555 MW for jacket-fixed structures.