Smart energy transition with the inclusion of floating wind energy in existing hydroelectric reservoirs with a view to 2050. Ecuadorian case study

Abstract

Ecuador promotes an energy matrix with zero net emissions by 2050, knowing that hydroelectric power from a reservoir has been fundamental in the electrical system. The reservoirs comprise large unused areas, in many of these sites there are interesting wind speeds thanks to the wind tunnels that are formed between hill and hill and can be used by installing floating wind turbines. This research presents an alternative to increase the driving actions of Ecuador to structure its 100% renewable energy system in a diversified way. For this reason, the resulting impact is analyzed by including Floating Wind Power (FWP) systems and four points of interest are analyzed in this study: Mazar, Coca Codo Sinclair, Manduriacu and Delsitanisagua. The energy mix is evaluated using EnergyPLAN software, a specialized tool to evaluate diversified smart systems of completely renewable electricity in the long term. This study is novel, breaks the traditional schemes in Ecuador and provides a different vision for decision makers, such as investors, legislators and researchers to discuss before committing economic resources. The results show that in 2050 floating wind energy would be contributing 11.13% of the total electricity in Ecuador and 16.27% of the wind component. Interpreting these values, the floating wind component may be significant and would further diversify energy production in this South American country.