Abstract
The global transition toward sustainable energy has intensified interest in wind power development, particularly in comparing the capabilities of onshore and offshore systems. This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the technical characteristics, energy potential, and operational challenges associated with both wind energy types worldwide. The analysis examines wind resource availability, turbine design features, power density, cost trends, environmental considerations, and grid-integration issues. This study compares OFWTs and ONWTs in terms of performance, design, environmental impact, and regulation. OFWTs, operating in stronger, steadier WSs (~9 m/s), achieve CFs above 50% and outputs up to 15 MW, as seen in Hywind Scotland’s 56% performance. Despite scalability, they face higher energy costs (~$80/MWh) and marine ecosystem concerns. ONWTs, with lower WSs (~5–8 m/s) and 30–40% CFs, are more cost-effective (~$50/MWh) but present land-use and biodiversity challenges. Overall, site- specific strategies integrating floating and modular technologies are essential to balance efficiency, sustainability, and cost in future WE systems. The comparative evaluation highlights that optimizing future wind energy expansion requires a balanced approach: leveraging the maturity and cost-effectiveness of onshore systems while exploiting the superior resource quality and large-scale generation opportunities offered by offshore installations. The findings support policymakers and developers in selecting suitable wind strategies aligned with national energy goals and resource characteristics.