Innovations and Developments in Emerging Offshore Renewable Energy Technologies

Dear Colleagues,

Offshore renewable energy technologies are emerging as vital enablers in the global transition toward sustainable and resilient energy systems. Among these, offshore wind and wave energy stand out for their capacity to deliver large-scale, low-carbon power generation. Their rapid development is supported by advances in engineering design, materials science, digitalization, and environmental management. This Special Issue highlights recent innovations shaping the future of offshore renewables, with a primary focus on wind and wave energy, while also covering emerging approaches such as tidal energy, ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC), and floating solar.

The offshore wind sector has progressed through innovations in floating foundation systems, larger and more efficient turbines, and improved grid integration. These developments are enabling deployment in deeper waters, significantly expanding the geographic potential of offshore wind. In parallel, wave energy technologies are gaining momentum through adaptive control systems, multi-functional offshore platforms, and hybrid designs that integrate both wave and wind energy on shared infrastructure.

Material innovation plays a key role in improving reliability and reducing costs. Corrosion-resistant composites, smart coatings, and modular components are enhancing durability and simplifying maintenance. In parallel, the integration of digital technologies—particularly digital monitoring via digital twins—is transforming offshore system operations. Digital twins enable real-time simulation, predictive maintenance, and optimization, allowing for improved system performance and lifecycle management under complex marine conditions.

Environmental considerations are increasingly integrated into offshore energy project planning. Marine spatial planning, ecosystem impact assessments, and biodiversity conservation measures are now central to the design and operation of new developments. Furthermore, synergies with other blue economy sectors—such as aquaculture, desalination, and carbon capture—are creating opportunities for multi-use offshore infrastructure and more efficient use of marine space.

In alignment with the European Commission’s Circular Economy Action Plan, there is a growing shift toward circularity in offshore renewable energy systems. This includes the adoption of recyclable and bio-based materials, modular system designs for easier refurbishment and reuse, and strategies for responsible decommissioning and end-of-life management. These practices reduce waste, enhance resource efficiency, and contribute to broader climate and sustainability goals.

This Special Issue presents interdisciplinary research and case studies that showcase how offshore renewable energy technologies are addressing key technical, economic, and environmental challenges. It explores the convergence of engineering innovation, digital transformation, environmental responsibility, and circular economy principles in driving the sustainable growth of the offshore energy sector. By capturing the latest trends and breakthroughs, the Special Issue aims to provide a comprehensive view of how offshore renewables can accelerate progress toward global decarbonization targets and support a resilient, low-carbon future.

Prof. Dr. R. M. Chandima Ratnayake
Prof. Dr. Janaka Ekanayake
Guest Editors

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