PhD Studentship: Energy Security vs. Energy Import Costs: Assessing the Role of Offshore Wind Power

Supervisor(s)

1. Dr Anna Rita Bennato, Loughborough University
2. Dr Morakinyo Adetutu, Loughborough University

Enquiries email: auracdt@hull.ac.uk

Closes: 16 May 2024

Subject areas

• Economics;
• Physical & environmental science.

Project description 

This study aims to investigate the pivotal role of wind turbine owners’ decisions and policy alternatives for enhancing the integration of offshore wind energy into electricity grids. In response to mounting concerns about climate change, local air pollution, fluctuating fossil fuel prices, energy security challenges, and potential resource depletion, governments worldwide have implemented proactive measures at various administrative levels. These actions involve policies aimed at bolstering the presence of renewable energy sources within electricity sectors, essential for nurturing emerging industries, driving technological advancements, achieving economies of scale, and fostering competition.

Among the earliest renewable technologies to receive substantial promotion, wind energy stands out due to its maturity and cost-effectiveness relative to other options. It has become a favoured choice for nations addressing climate imperatives. A significant potential game-changer for offshore wind lies in the commercial development of floating technologies, enabling deployment in deeper waters where fixed foundations are impractical. Offshore wind holds promise for electricity generation and energy storage. 

The project will explore:

• Energy Security Implications: Examining offshore wind power's contribution to enhancing energy security by utilizing domestic renewable resources, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, and mitigating associated risks.
• Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Investigating how policy and regulatory frameworks promote offshore wind development while addressing energy security concerns and analyzing their impact on investment decisions.
• Technological Advancements: Assessing the latest technological advancements in offshore wind power generation and transmission to reduce costs and enhance energy security.

To achieve these objectives, the project will use theoretical and empirical methods, focusing on UK offshore wind farm development.

Training & Skills:

The student will develop numerical modelling and programming skills, offering career opportunities in academia and industry. The program includes a six-month intensive course drawing on academic partner expertise and facilities, supplemented by CPD throughout the four-year research scholarship.

Eligibility requirements

If you have received or expect to achieve before starting your PhD programme a First-class Honours degree, or a 2:1 Honours degree and a Masters, or a Distinction at Masters level a degree (or the international equivalents) in economics, energy economics, environmental science or related fields, and have strong analytical, quantitative and interdisciplinary collaboration skills, we would like to hear from you.

If your first language is not English, or you require a Student Visa to study, you will be required to provide evidence of your English language proficiency level that meets the requirements of our academic partners. This course requires academic IELTS 7.0 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each skill. Please contact auracdt@hull.ac.uk for further guidance or questions.

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