Framework for the Optimization of Operation and Maintenance Planning for Offshore Wind Farms
Offshore Wind Farms, Offshore Wind Energy, O&M, Optimization, Artificial Intelligence, Operations Research.
The development of offshore wind farms faces significant challenges in their operations and maintenance (O&M), such as the high dependence on adequate port infrastructure, regional regulations and technical requirements, and the maintenance of wind turbines, which can significantly impact the continuous growth of this sector due to high industrial costs. Despite these challenges, the significant growth of the offshore wind sector is primarily supported by European and emerging countries as a strategy to maintain competitiveness in the production of durable goods and commodities. In this context, the current research aims to develop a conceptual model to optimize the planning of offshore wind farm O&M, resulting from a systematic literature review that identified 122 relevant articles, as well as the consideration of factors from six representative companies in the sector. The conceptual model developed, validated through focus groups, includes 21 factors in three main dimensions: O&M Strategic Planning, Innovation and Technical Analysis, Efficiency, and Operational Safety. Based on these considerations, the study suggests exploring the feasibility of integrating hydrogen technology with offshore wind energy, and proposing the development of specific quantitative methods to address conflicting choices for optimizing operations and maintenance (O&M). These approaches aim to drive global energy transition by offering solutions that reduce risks and uncertainties in routine decision-making.