Implementation of Offshore Wind Turbines to Reduce Air Pollution in Coastal Areas—Case Study Constanta Harbour in the Black Sea

Considering the current concerns regarding the level of air pollution from the Black Sea area, the aim of the present work is to establish whether a cold ironing project that involves the use of the wind resources from the port of Constanta (Romania) could become a reality. The regional and local wind resources measured at a height of 100 m above sea level were assessed by taking into account 20 years (2000–2019) of ERA5 wind data. The wind speed significantly increases as we move towards the offshore areas, with the wind Class C7 reporting a maximum of 41%. By combining the annual electricity production with the emissions associated with the port activities, it was possible to show that at least 385 turbines (each rated at eight MW) will be required to cover the electricity demand for this port. The present study has found it difficult to implement such a project based only on the available wind resources and has identified that more likely a mixed project that involves some other resources will be more appropriate. Finally, it is worth mentioning that the future of the ship industry is becoming greener and definitely, a wind project located near Constanta harbour will represent a viable solution in this direction.