Analysis-based results on the delineation of prearrangement areas for marine renewable energy installations in the Western Black Sea Basin

Abstract

The selection of optimum places for installations and suitable solutions for the use of marine renewable energy requires a complex approach as well as a longer period of time and a spatial scale hydrodynamic characterization, which time-limited and local studies are incapable to provide. To that end, the complex monitoring and modelling approach on the evolution of large-scale marine and coastal processes in response to both direct and indirect human intervention and to natural phenomena variability is an increasingly important issue in the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) and MSP implementation, all over the world. The installation of wave/currents devices within coastal and marine areas involves the knowledge of the physical, economic and social impact of the continuous modification of the marine hydrodynamics, due to the new changes induced in the marine climate. The present work adequately takes into account the combined results of Marine Spatial Planning Directive applications within Western Black Sea Basin (WBSB). The MSP approach allows the selection of efficient areas for the installation of marine waves and currents devices converters (WECs), in relation with the potential environmental impact of adjacent MPAs, taking into account the induced strong variability of renewable devices/convertors on the coastal processes. Recommended areas for the installation of the above-mentioned devices within highly energetic areas asked for a proper response in order to develop a detailed delineation targeting a sustainable coastal protection.