Development and Application of a GIS for Identifying Areas for Ocean Energy Deployment in Irish and Western UK Waters

Abstract

Ireland and the UK possess vast ocean energy resources within their respective maritime areas. However, not all offshore areas are suitable for deployment of ocean energy devices. This article describes the development of a multitude of geospatial data relating to ocean energy site suitability, as well as a Web-GIS tool for hosting and performing analysis on this data. A validation of wave, water depth and seabed character data used in the study revealed good correlation between modelled and in situ data. The data is mapped, and the spatial patterns are discussed with relevance to ORE sector implications. A site selection model, which included much of this data, was developed for this study and the Web-GIS tool. A survey conducted with ocean energy technology developers revealed their desired site criteria. The responses were applied in a case study using the site selection model to uncover potential and optimum areas for deployment of both wave and tidal energy devices. The results reveal extensive areas of the Atlantic Ocean and Celtic Sea appropriate for wave energy deployment and less extensive areas for tidal energy deployment, in the Irish Sea and Inner Seas off the West Coast of Scotland.

Changes of the Coastal Zones Due to Climate Change

“…References [3,4] provide valuable information on various aspects of coastal climate change and sea-land dynamics in diverse geographic settings and identify tools and methods to be used in the implementation of socioeconomic adaptation strategies. The results of [5] showcase tools to explore the potential for renewable offshore energy exploitation. One of the central research objectives is to analyze the impacts of climate change on storm surge inundation, coastal flooding, and shoreline changes.…”

“…O'Connell et al [5] showcase the development of a comprehensive geospatial dataset and a Web-GIS tool for assessing ocean energy site suitability in Ireland and Western UK waters. Identifying extensive areas in the Atlantic Ocean and Celtic Sea that are appropriate for wave energy deployment highlights the potential of utilizing renewable energy in these regions.…”

“…This contributes to understanding the evolving coastal dynamics in response to climate change. This study identifies less extensive areas that are suitable for tidal energy deployment, providing valuable information for the sustainable development of ocean energy resources in the Irish Sea and Inner Seas off the West Coast of Scotland, which are undergoing changing coastal conditions due to climate change [5].…”