Two technical reports published under the Clean energy for EU islands initiative offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of renewable energy deployment in island contexts. Together, they strengthen the evidence base for advancing the clean energy transitions of remote and grid-constrained environments.
The first report, Long-Term Yield Assessment — Fejø Wind Farm, provides a detailed projection of energy output over the lifetime of a wind farm located on the Danish island of Fejø. By combining measured wind data, modelling, and statistical correlation techniques, the authors present a robust forecast of annual energy production, considering wake effects, losses, and uncertainty. The study emphasises the importance of combining on-site measurements with long-term reference datasets to obtain reliable long-term yield estimates. It also identifies key loss factors such as turbine availability, electrical and environmental losses, and outlines strategies to mitigate them. Through a probability of exceedance analysis, the report quantifies the risks and performance variation that can be expected over time, offering guidance to operators and investors seeking to maintain stable performance and manage uncertainty throughout a project’s operational life.
The second report, Mitigating Impacts of Ferry Electrification on Distribution Grids — Faial and São Jorge, examines the transition to electric ferry services in the Azores. As maritime transport shifts from diesel to electric propulsion, local electricity networks must adapt to new and significant loads. The study models the effects of increased power demand, charging patterns, and potential grid disturbances, identifying where reinforcement and modernisation will be required. It emphasises the need for coordinated planning between vessel operators, port authorities, and grid managers, advocating for smart charging schedules, energy storage systems, and advanced control solutions to minimise strain on distribution networks.
Together, these reports demonstrate the value of context-specific, data-driven approaches to clean energy deployment on islands. The Fejø wind study builds confidence in renewable energy forecasting and investment, while the Azores case offers a practical framework for integrating electrified transport without jeopardising grid stability. Both underscore the importance of viewing islands as interconnected systems where energy generation, mobility, and infrastructure must evolve in harmony.
By bridging technical detail with practical recommendations, the studies contribute directly to Europe’s wider goals of decarbonisation, resilience, and innovation. They serve as replicable models for other island and coastal regions seeking to accelerate their clean energy transitions while maintaining reliability and quality of service.
You can find the two reports to download here.