What is it about?
This article analyses how offshore wind power can be optimized to support the energy system during extreme climatic events, such as the severe drought that hit Portugal in 2022. During this period, hydropower generation—Portugal’s main renewable source - was significantly reduced, increasing the need for alternative sources. The study evaluates offshore wind production near the Portuguese coast under different operational strategies using real meteorological and market data. Several generation scenarios were tested to assess power output, economic returns, and responsiveness to demand peaks. The research also investigates the reliability and complementarity between offshore wind and hydroelectric systems under climate stress, providing a framework to guide energy planning in times of environmental uncertainty.
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Why is it important?
The 2022 drought in Portugal revealed critical vulnerabilities in relying heavily on hydroelectric energy. This article highlights the strategic role offshore wind power can play in increasing system resilience and energy security, especially under extreme climate scenarios. By offering technical and economic evaluations of offshore wind generation, it contributes to designing more robust and diversified energy systems. The findings are particularly relevant in the context of climate adaptation policies and long-term energy planning, showing that offshore wind can mitigate risks posed by hydrological variability and support grid stability during renewable energy shortages.
Perspectives
This work emerged from my concern with the increasing frequency of extreme climatic events and their impact on renewable energy systems. I wanted to explore how offshore wind could act as a buffer during periods of hydroelectric decline, using the 2022 drought in Portugal as a real and urgent example. As a researcher, I see the energy transition as not only a technological challenge but also a matter of strategic resilience. My goal with this article was to provide concrete tools and simulations that could help policymakers and engineers prepare for a future where climate unpredictability is the norm. It is a contribution to proactive, adaptive energy system design.
Dr Fernando M Camilo
Universidade de Lisboa
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Optimization of Offshore Wind Power Generation in Response to the 2022 Extreme Drought in Portugal, Energies, November 2023, MDPI AG,
DOI: 10.3390/en16227542.
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