Offshore wind farms (OWF) are located in countries with densely populated coasts with numerous marine environment users, creating difficulties in organizing marine space. Fishing activities are among the most affected by offshore wind development (OWD). This situation is leading to problems and conflicts between stakeholders. In addition, spatial limitations such as exclusion zones are expected to be placed on numerous ongoing activities with increasing claims of competing uses.
The development of OWF involves multiple actors who are commonly organized in networks rather than a hierarchy, so cooperation between stakeholders is needed to find a better location for OWF and to minimize conflict among actors. Multi-use activities in OWD are a challenge and an opportunity to coordinate and agree among different actors in the future of offshore wind (OW).
Multi-use (MU) policies have yet to be developed enough, and they are in their first stages on the East Coast of the USA. Therefore, this thesis will analyze the perspectives, primary interests, and interdependences of the key stakeholders involved in OWD and how multi-use can be an integral part of the early stages of the permitting process to develop OW.
The thesis explores the integration of MU activities in OWD in RI, USA, and the benefits it can bring. The report uses actor models and comparative cognitive mapping (CCM) as a model to analyze stakeholder perspectives and identify potential conflicts and synergies in OWD.
Several strategies are suggested for addressing conflicts in OWD, including promoting collaboration and guidance that aligns with the goals of state agencies and other stakeholders, streamlining policies that support processes such as interconnection, grid integration of OWD, and permitting and policies. Moreover, it is essential to continue with assessments and research, engage the public and other stakeholders, and educate the general public about the benefits and risks associated with offshore wind energy (OWE) and the potential activities of MU.
Overall, the thesis emphasizes the importance of stakeholder collaboration and an integrated approach to governance and power distribution in addressing conflicts and promoting sustainable OWD in Rhode Island and the United States. These actions enable the sustainability and responsibility of this new industry operating in federal waters, enhancing coastal economies, minimizing conflicts, and maintaining ocean ecosystem services.
The findings of this thesis can aid in decision-making for issues in OWD and provide suggestions for developing new policies that can be integrated into the implementation of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) for MU sites, allowing various users to utilize marine space sustainably.