The conceptual design of modular floating energy islands involves the integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines and solar panels, onto floating structures. These modular systems offer advantages, such as minimal environmental impact and adaptability to different coastal and environmental conditions. This study focuses on the design of connections between the floating modules. Hinged joints are identified as a promising connector type due to their balance of flexibility and strength. Advanced numerical simulations are employed to assess the hydrodynamic forces and structural responses of floating platforms. A hinged connection model is numerically developed and the simulated performance shows good agreement with published results. Subsequently, three different connection configurations are evaluated, and their responses are discussed. Among these, a three-hinge connection system is found to be efficient, minimising relative displacement between the platforms.

Floating modular energy islands (FMEIs) are modular, interconnected floating structures designed to collectively produce, store, convert, and transport renewable energy. This review aims to establish a foundation for developing innovative approaches to sustainably harness multi-energy sources in offshore environments. It leverages existing technological expertise while exploring new solutions to address specific challenges associated with FMEIs. The review initially presents existing technologies for floating energy structures and assesses their applicability to FMEI. The structural materials that could be utilised for the construction of a floating energy island are subsequently reviewed. Next, the offshore construction technologies suitable for FMEI are reviewed. Finally, studies on the life cycle assessment of hybrid energy systems are examined, highlighting the environmental advantages of integrating multiple renewable energy sources, thereby underscoring the potential of FMEIs.

Floating Modular Energy Islands (FMEIs) are modularized, interconnected floating structures that function together to produce, store, possibly convert and transport renewable energy. Recent technological advancements in the offshore energy sector indicate that the concept of floating offshore energy islands has the potential to become more cost-effective and more widespread than previously anticipated. This review is specifically meant as a basis for the development of new approaches to the sustainable exploitation of multi-energy sources in the offshore environment leveraging the know-how of existing technologies and, at the same time, exploring new solutions for the specific challenges of FMEIs. The paper critically analyzes the current state of data-driven approaches and structural health monitoring techniques in the offshore energy sector. It also covers topics such as met-ocean data, load estimation, platform dynamics, coupling actions, nonlinear dynamics of mooring lines, modelling considerations, and control of electrical subsystems. It is believed that this systematic and multidisciplinary review will facilitate synergies and further enhance research and development of offshore renewable energies.