Recent development of offshore marine power in Galicia

ABSTRACT

Renewable energy development is characterized by the existence of different models in European countries, and they are interesting because of the proximity of those countries such as Spain, and in particular in Galicia (NW Spain). Given the complexity of the process, it is estimated that no commercial offshore wind farms will be approved until 2012, with operations possibly beginning in 2014. The process encountered greater difficulty than initially estimated, possibly because of the lack of in-depth feasibility studies. In Galicia, the following elements must be considered prior to the implementation of offshore wind parks: a) the structure of the continental shelf, which is much narrower than in other regions of Spain and Baltic areas, b) wind parks may potentially impact beaches and tourism activities, c) wind turbines may also affect the marine ecosystem and the landscape, so comprehensive studies must be conducted, and d) these facilities need support on land.

KEYWORDS:

• Galician coastal development
• Offshore marine power
• renewable energy
• wind energy