Assessing offshore wind plants for energy and green hydrogen production: A case study in the Mostaganem coastal region, Algeria

Abstract

This study assesses the feasibility and strategic implications of establishing a 500 MW offshore wind farm utilizing fixed wind turbine technology along Algeria’s western coastal economic zone, with a focus on the Mostaganem region. The study recommends integrating 33 Vestas V-235 wind turbines, each boasting a 15 MW capacity to harness offshore wind resources for electricity and green hydrogen production. Utilizing the Wind Atlas Analysis and Application Program (WAsP), offshore wind potential is assessed based on meteorological data from a land-based station, overcoming the lack of in situ sea level measurements. Results show that the proposed wind farm could yield 1361.63 GWh/year of electricity at a cost of 0.89 $/kWh. Additionally, it would produce 28,571 tons of hydrogen at a cost of 2.12 $/kg. This initiative is anticipated to significantly reduce CO2 emissions, by approximately 595,450 tons/year, highlighting the effectiveness of offshore wind resources in promoting sustainable energy production and advancing green hydrogen as a viable energy carrier in this region.