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Remote Sensing for Assessing the Impact of Offshore Renewable Energy Exploration in Marine Areas
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1  IB-S/ISISE and ARISE, Dep. of Civil Engineering, University of Minho, Guimarães 4800-058, Portugal
Academic Editor: Fabio Tosti

Abstract:

The expansion of offshore renewable energy projects presents opportunities for sustainable energy generation but raises concerns about potential impacts on marine ecosystems. This study focuses on assessing the environmental effects of offshore wind energy exploitation using satellite imagery. The image collection is carried out 20 km off the coast of Viana do Castelo, using as a reference point the WindFloat Atlantic project in Portugal, as well as in other comparable locations. By analyzing satellite data from August 2018, 2021, and 2024, this research evaluates possible changes in marine conditions, particularly chlorophyll concentrations, as an indicator of primary productivity and ecosystem health. Data werecollected using Sentinel-2 imagery, leveraging its high spatial resolution and spectral bands suitable for marine monitoring. As one of the main variables, chlorophyll analysis was conducted using the OceanColor software suite and validated through indices such as the Normalized Difference Chlorophyll Index (NDCI), mapped and compared across the selected years. The results revealed spatial and temporal variations in chlorophyll concentration around the project site, providing evidence of localized ecosystem shifts potentially linked to the operation of offshore turbines. These findings highlight the utility of remote sensing as a cost-effective, non-invasive tool for environmental monitoring in offshore energy developments. This approach demonstrates how geospatial technology can support sustainable marine planning, align with ecosystem protection goals, and contribute to achieving environmental sustainability objectives. The research provides a replicable methodology applicable to other offshore energy sites worldwide, offering valuable insights for stakeholders in marine resource management.

Keywords: Remote Sensing; Impact Assessment; Offshore Renewable; Marine Areas
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