Photovoltaic Shading and Performance Evaluation in an Offshore Hybrid Wind–Solar Platform

This study proposes and evaluates a hybrid photovoltaic–wind platform designed as an autonomous semi-submersible offshore charging station for vessels at anchorage. The research emphasizes the geometric configuration and shading analysis of photovoltaic modules, both in the horizontal and vertical planes, to determine optimal spacing and maximize energy capture. A case study was conducted for the outer anchorage area of the Port of Constanța (44°1′ N, 28°7′ E), where Canadian Solar CS7N-660MS modules were considered. The results showed that a total of 72 modules (48 installed on the floating platform and 24 on the turbine tower) can be integrated over an active surface of 216 m², corresponding to an installed capacity of approximately 47 kW. Based on irradiation data from the Global Solar Atlas and standardized performance models, the annual energy output was estimated at nearly 56 MWh. These findings validate the technical feasibility of the proposed configuration and demonstrate its potential to reduce fossil fuel consumption and pollutant emissions from maritime activities.