A comparative study of wind farm potential in shallow-waters in Brazil and Scotland

Facing the predicted climate changes and the potential measures to reduce carbon dioxide emissions globally, there is an increased use of clean renewable energy sources. In Europe, the wind power has often been used in the last decades and, more recently, a trend for offshore utilization has been noticed. However, there is a lack of knowledge on the specific planning and engineering considerations relevant to construction of wind farms in shallow waters. The aim of this study is investigate the potential for wind power plants in shallow waters at sites with contrasting bio-geo-climatic characteristics. Scotland is well known for the potential offshore wind energy and in Brazil, where this technique is not yet in use, there are only initial studies with indication of governmental interest for future implantations in great lakes. The focus of this study is on the environmental impact assessment as well as the impact on coastal communities and public participation in the decision-making. To this end, this study reviews the current practice in site determination, planning, and construction while investigating the potential for construction of wind farms at two shallow waters locations in Scotland and Brazil. A comparative study between the two countries for offshore wind turbines geotechnics with proper structure at low depths of water, taking into accounts the environmental characteristics and needs along with suitable wind towers construction is outlined. The results show variation of construction models used by both countries regarding the environmental impact assessment and a convergent tendency for projects planning acceptance by the communities. The study identifies a potential transfer of knowledge in specific areas of planning, development, and construction of offshore wind farms in shallow waters. Additionally, this study recognizes the importance of geo-environmental site investigation and classification within a sustainability framework.