Introduction
The use and sharing of open ocean space by different activities of the Blue Economy is regarded by some as means to overcome difficulties and challenges from the high energy and dynamic environment, difficult logistics and cutting on high capital and operational costs. One of the classical examples is the multi-use of space by windfarms and aquaculture. The synergies of systems include the sharing of capital costs regarding mooring system and working platforms, plus a reduction in operational costs resulting from such as logistics and transports, maintenance teams and proximity of energy production – consumption. This presentation deals with the conceptual project OIPS for a multi-use platform of a defined floating windfarm, to be installed North Eastern Porto Santo Island (Portugal), at 70m depth single/double mooring and the choice of compatible fish farming system, for the most efficient and sustainable production of both energy and food.
Methods
We performed a internet survey of multi-purpose ocean platform projects associated with fish farming systems. The analysis included an assessment of technology readiness levels (TRL) of the different design systems proposed.
Results and Discussion
Several large concept projects co-financed by European funds have addressed this theme. Assuming an operation in offshore waters, interactions with the local environment and other social-economical activities are minimized and consequently, less stakeholders are involved. The interactive design and engineering of both energy and food production units depends upon the technical efficiency of systems and must have in account particularly, their operational compatibility to maximize and harmonize the outputs of the systems. The availability and quality of environmental data, particularly waves, wind and currents are critical for this purpose. The multi-use energy-producing platform provides for the reserve of energy to guarantee for its autonomy. Electronic sensors, video cameras and an AUV ensure the remote control and high automation of operations (including maintenance works), the online surveillance of the feed and livestock, and security of all facilities. TRL analysis of similar projects shows the need to develop innovative equipment to cope with the increment on operating loads of the windfarm platform (permanent fish farm cages and occasional service boat) under the site environmental conditions. These include the