Offshore wind farms are wind installations located in the sea or other waters, as opposed to inland wind farms located on land. These farms use wind turbines that are placed on platforms on the water, usually in open sea areas. The design and development of offshore renewable energy sources is carried out in a circular and renewable way, as significant quantities of metals and minerals are required.
- Installation at Sea: The wind turbines are placed on platforms that "hug" the windmill and protect it from the sea conditions.
- Strategic Location: Offshore wind farms are placed in areas where the wind is constant and strong. These areas are usually located far from the coast to take advantage of the active air that blows over the sea.
- High Energy Production: Offshore wind farms can generate significant amounts of electricity due to the constant and strong sea breeze. The energy is generated by the wind turbines and transferred to land via submarine cables.
- Challenges: Offshore farms face challenges such as sea wear, salinity, bad weather and maintenance on wind turbines located in the water. Also, the use of marine areas must be done with respect for the surrounding area and marine ecosystems.
- Environmental Benefits: Offshore wind farms help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment by producing clean energy without the use of fossil fuels.
Business prospects/growth prospects
Global climate change policies further strengthen the role of renewable energy sources in the European energy transition. The transition to energy production highlights the comparative advantage of the Greek renewable energy market, from an investment point of view, which presents significant prospects for wind and solar energy. Additional opportunities for its energy sector
of the country arise from the further implementation of the interconnection of islands to the grid, as well as the development of the country's offshore wind industry, energy storage and hydrogen technologies.