Feasibility study and preliminary design of a floating offshore solar photovoltaic multipurpose platform

This thesis aims to explore the feasibility of harnessing the potential of large multipurpose floating offshore photovoltaic (PV) energy platforms in the central Adriatic Sea, along the east coast of Italy. The primary goal is to develop a preliminary structural design that encompasses various project details, excluding geotechnical aspects related to foundations. This feasibility study marks the inception of a pioneering offshore initiative in the Adriatic Sea. The envisioned floating structure will be a Tension Leg Platform (TLP) type and will serve multiple purposes, including green solar energy generation, housing oceanographic research equipment or strategic facilities, and acting as an artificial reef to safeguard marine biodiversity in a decommissioned oil and gas production area. Our main focus will center on ensuring structural integrity, durability, efficient energy production, and sustainability. We will conceptualize and design the structure to be buoyant, providing geographical flexibility and versatility regarding its deployment. While economic considerations will be taken into account, they will receive less emphasis, recognizing that research and development projects often incur higher costs due to the evolving nature of production and construction cycles.