Optimization of India’s offshore wind farm capacity density - a case study

A significant challenge in offshore wind energy is understanding and reducing wake losses from wind farms, which can affect downstream turbine efficiency by 10–20% and determine the optimal capacity of wind farms within a defined area. This study aimed to determine the optimal wind farm capacity density in offshore subzone B₁, which is off the coast of Tamil Nadu, India. The objectives include maximizing the installable offshore wind capacity, achieving the highest possible annual energy production or capacity utilization factor (CUF), maintaining array losses below 10%, and minimizing the levelized cost of energy (LCoE). The methodology involves analysing the ERA5 reanalysis of wind data, assessing various wind farm capacity densities (3–7 MW/km²), and evaluating the impact on turbine spacing, array losses, and LCoE. This study revealed a significant correlation between the wind farm capacity density and the LCoE, indicating an upwards trend in the LCoE with increasing capacity density. An optimal density of 5.17 MW/km² was identified for subzone B₁, accommodating 72 turbines with a total capacity of 1080 MW and an LCoE of Rs. 8.86/kWh. This configuration balances energy production and costs while providing critical information for future offshore wind projects in the region. This study underscores the importance of strategic turbine placement and continuous innovation in wind energy research.