Comprehensive Assessment of Offshore Wind Turbine Key Selection Factors Through a Two-Stage Fuzzy PIPRECIA Framework

Abstract

Wind energy is among the world's most valuable natural resources. Offshore wind turbines have proven to be reliable and effective thanks to their ability to capture higher wind speeds. However, selecting the most appropriate offshore wind turbine remains a complex and challenging task, as it involves multiple factors and optimization considerations. This study addresses the issue by identifying a comprehensive set of key factors pertinent to the selection of offshore wind turbines. Particularly, the study identifies seven key factors with more than twenty-three corresponding sub-factors. These elements are subsequently examined using the expertise of offshore wind turbine experts. The criteria are subsequently ranked using the robust fuzzy PIPRECIA (Pivot Pairwise Relative Criteria Relevance Assessment) multi-attribute decision analysis approach. The findings indicate that technical factors constitute the primary consideration in the decision-making process for the selection of offshore wind turbines. Within this domain, annual energy production emerges as the most critical auxiliary criterion. This prioritization was affirmed by a quality manager with extensive practical experience at several offshore wind sites in France including Saint-Nazaire, Fécamp, Saint-Brieuc, and Île de Noirmoutier. The prominence of annual energy production underscores its pivotal role in determining the long-term performance and economic viability of turbine alternatives.