Spatial planning parameters of offshore wind energy in Greece

Abstract

The development of the offshore wind farms sector in recent decades has contributed positively to the effort to replace fossil fuels electricity and to reduce emissions. Gradually, the interest is focused on the exploitation of the strong wind potential that is located in marine areas with greater depths utilising innovative technology. However, prevention in relation to possible collisions with other activities remains a precondition, as well as the protection of sensitive marine ecosystems. The purpose of this paper is to explore the framework for the location of offshore wind farms and to identify priorities in relation to possible criteria and appropriate mechanisms for the siting and development of related investments in Greece. In this effort, reference is made to the scientific dialogue and the international experience, and the parameters are analysed, as they mainly result from the practice of spatial planning and the evaluation of relevant models for the development of the activity in Greece.