Analysis of offshore wind farm locations in the context of marine spatial planning in Asturias, Spain

This study presents a multidisciplinary spatial analysis to assess the suitability of offshore wind energy development along the coast of Asturias, northern Spain. By integrating technical, ecological, and socio-economic variables, a multi-criteria evaluation was conducted to identify optimal areas for wind farm installation. Bathymetric and seabed data, long-term wind and wave datasets, biodiversity indicators, and fishing activity maps were processed using GIS and statistical tools. Wind energy production was estimated using the power curve of the Vestas V66-1.65 MW turbine, incorporating 15 years of wind data at 78 m height. Ecological assessments included biodiversity indices for birds, mammals, fish, plankton, and benthic species, while socio-economic factors addressed artisanal fisheries, employment, and visibility impacts. Maintenance feasibility was evaluated by analyzing weather windows based on wave height constraints. The results highlight the potential trade-off for identified areas based on high energy potential, low ecological conflict, and moderate socio-economic sensitivity. The proposed spatial planning analysis supports evidence-based decision-making for sustainable offshore wind deployment, in line with European marine conservation and energy transition goals.