Hybrid Fixed and Floating Wind Turbine Siting in the Mediterranean Region: An Energy and Economic Analysis

Pandora Gkeka-Serpetsidaki, Dimitris Fotiou and Theocharis Tsoutsos ()
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Pandora Gkeka-Serpetsidaki: Renewable & Sustainable Energy Laboratory, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Akrotiri Campus, 73100 Chania, Greece
Dimitris Fotiou: Renewable & Sustainable Energy Laboratory, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Akrotiri Campus, 73100 Chania, Greece
Theocharis Tsoutsos: Renewable & Sustainable Energy Laboratory, School of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Crete, Akrotiri Campus, 73100 Chania, Greece

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 21, 1-19

Abstract: This study introduces a hybrid siting approach for Offshore Wind Farms by combining bottom-fixed and floating wind turbines to address seabed variability in the Mediterranean region. Using Heraklion Bay, Crete, as a case study, a multi-step methodology was adopted, integrating GIS tools, micro-siting analysis, and WAsP simulations to estimate the energy output of three layout scenarios. A comprehensive energy and economic assessment was performed, including key metrics such as Net Present Value, Internal Rate of Return, Payback Period and Levelised Cost of Energy. Scenario 2, which featured a mixed deployment of Vestas and Siemens Gamesa turbines, proved to be the most financially attractive option, yielding the highest Net Present Value (€167 million) and shortest Payback Period. Sensitivity analysis under a 20% reduction in wind resources confirmed the robustness of this scenario. Results demonstrate that hybrid configurations offer a flexible and scalable solution, particularly in island regions with varied bathymetry and seasonal energy demands. The findings highlight the potential of hybrid offshore systems to accelerate energy transitions, optimise spatial utilisation, and improve cost-effectiveness in medium-depth seas.

Keywords: offshore wind farm; energy analysis; economic analysis; levelised cost of energy; floating wind (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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