Posters

Abstract

The growth of offshore wind energy represents a new frontier in the global energy transition. The deployment of this technology and the operation of offshore wind farms require a complex logistics chain involving ports, shipyards, specialised vessels, coastal infrastructure, and industrial zones in port areas. As a result, port surroundings become strategic areas from economic, environmental, and social perspectives. This study seeks to answer the following research question: what positive and/or negative impacts may occur in port environments due to the development of activities related to the installation and operation of offshore wind farms? In response, the study aims to identify the socioeconomic and environmental impacts in the vicinity of key ports supporting the offshore wind sector. The study followed four stages: (i) exploratory literature review; (ii) filtering and analysis of economic, social, and environmental data; (iii) thematic triangulation and discussion of results found in previous studies; (iv) identification and description of impacts. The results show that impacts can be categorised into four main areas: 1) Expansion of the port’s area of influence; 2) Regional and economic development; 3) Environmental and socioeconomic externalities; 4) Spatial planning and governance. Furthermore, ports may be considered key players in the energy transition, providing the necessary infrastructure to support the development of sectors such as offshore wind and green hydrogen, while also benefiting from the opportunity to decarbonise their own operations. Although this transition brings significant opportunities to port regions, it is essential that sector development is accompanied by coordinated economic and environmental planning, alongside inclusive social policies, in order to mitigate potential negative impacts and ensure long-term benefits.