This book begins by tracing the evolution of energy systems-from traditional fossil fuels to the rise of land-based renewables-and highlights the spatial and societal pressures that hinder further terrestrial expansion. It then introduces the ocean as a promising frontier for renewable energy generation.

The core of the book is structured into four main chapters, each dedicated to a key marine renewable energy type: offshore wind turbines, wave energy converters, tidal energy converters, and floating solar farms. Each chapter explores the fundamental principles, system components, design considerations, and challenges unique to ocean environments.

The final chapters examine emerging future directions, including hybrid renewable systems, offshore hydrogen production, clean fuels and maritime decarbonization, and the role of digital technologies in offshore system monitoring, management and maintenance.

Autorentext

Dr. Luofeng Huang is a Senior Lecturer at Cranfield University, UK. He earned his PhD from University College London (UCL), focusing on ships and marine structures. Dr. Huang has since transitioned his focus to ocean-based renewable energy systems, including floating solar farms, wave and tidal energy devices, and offshore wind turbines.

Dr. Huang currently serves as Deputy Editor of Ocean Engineering (Elsevier) and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), a Chartered Engineer (CEng), a Chartered Marine Engineer (CMarEng), and a Member of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (MIMarEST). He was named in the Forbes "30 Under 30 Europe" list for his achievements in science and academia.