Offshore renewable energy is a rapidly growing industry with great potential for reducing the world’s reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the effects of climate change. Ocean- and lake-based energy-generating technology have been around for a while now, but the Philippines has only recently started dipping its toes into this sea of new possibilities. Over here, there is Southeast Asia’s first tidal energy project in Samar, Visayas and Mindanao’s first floating solar farm, and a slew of proposed offshore wind farms in Western Visayas.
As more Filipinos and people around the world look towards offshore renewable energy technology, it is important to understand the advantages of these water-located energy generating facilities, and the potential environmental impacts of such projects.
Tidal Energy
Tidal energy harnesses the power of the tides, which are caused by the gravitational pull of the moon on the Earth’s oceans. And because ocean waves are both predictable and a virtually infinite resource, it’s a clearly superior form of renewable energy over solar and wind, which depend on several factors such as weather.
So, why isn’t tidal energy more widely used? Two reasons for the slow uptake of tidal power is infrastructure limitations, and challenges in finding suitable locations with adequate grid connectivity. But the most significant factor holding back tidal power may be lack of investment. Resources, funding, and research have been primarily directed towards more established renewable energy sources like solar and wind. This lack of support has stifled the development and deployment of tidal power technologies, leading to a cycle of limited progress and little attention from investors.
Offshore Wind Energy
Offshore wind farms have a leg up on their land-based counterparts. The ocean-based facilities can use larger wind blades and turbines, and the bigger the structure, the more energy it generates. Winds are also generally more powerful out at sea, making the ocean the ideal place to generate wind power.
Offshore wind farms are not without controversy, however. They share the same set of problematic issues as onshore wind farms, perhaps even more.
Floating Solar Photovoltaic Farms
Solar energy has become one of the fastest-growing sectors in the energy economy, and in recent years, a new type of solar farm has emerged – floating solar farms.
These farms, which are mounted on bodies of water (mainly inland bodies of water such as lakes), have a significant advantage over solar farms on land – they do not take up any additional land space. They also have the potential to be more efficient, with the coolness of the water helping to increase the efficiency of solar panels. Another benefit is that they can prevent water from evaporating when placed on top of hydroelectric dams, making them a popular choice in areas experiencing drought.
The Downside of Offshore Renewable Energy
Apart from the higher costs and lengthier period of time associated with developing, installing, and maintaining offshore renewable energy infrastructure, another disadvantage is the potential environmental impact of these projects on the world’s oceans and its inhabitants.
Collision Risk
One notable aspect of offshore renewable energy’s environmental effects is the potential for collision between marine animals and moving parts of turbines. This could lead to injury or death for these animals, as well as possibly damaging the turbines themselves. Proper site selection and incorporating measures such as acoustic deterrents can help minimize this risk.
Underwater Noise
Noise pollution also poses a threat to marine life. Noise from offshore renewable energy devices can impact animal communication and behavior, leading to disruption of feeding, mating, migration patterns, and other important activities. Additionally, it can also harm sensitive species such as whales and dolphins. Designing quieter devices and implementing acoustic monitoring can help address this issue.
Electromagnetic Fields
The electromagnetic fields produced by underwater cables can also affect marine animals. EMF can interfere with their sensory systems, causing confusion and disorientation. In extreme cases, it can also lead to physiological harm. Managing the positioning and strength of these fields can help reduce their impact on marine life.
Changes in Aquatic Animal Habitats
Offshore renewable energy projects may also introduce changes in the habitats of sea creatures. These changes could include the creation of artificial reefs from device placement or changes in water movement caused by tidal turbines. Understanding the potential impacts on these habitats is crucial for maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Effects of Mooring Lines
Another important factor to consider is the environmental effects of mooring lines for floating devices such as floating solar panels. These lines may pose a risk for animals getting tangled or caught, as well as the potential for debris buildup that could trap marine life. Implementing best practices for mooring line design and installation can help mitigate these risks.
Changes in Oceanographic Systems
Changes in oceanographic systems are also a potential environmental impact from offshore renewable energy projects. These changes could include altered nutrient and sediment flow, which could impact the health of marine ecosystems. Careful monitoring and consideration of these impacts can help minimize any negative effects.
Tidal, offshore wind, and floating solar energy have undeniable potential to improve the Philippine power mix and help achieve the nation’s energy goals for 2030 and 2040. But as the country continues to develop and expand its renewable energy assets, it is crucial to prioritize responsible and sustainable practices. The government, key players in the energy sector, and even responsible citizens need to address these challenges and insist on further research and development to make offshore renewable energy a viable and widespread source of power for Visayans and for all Filipinos.