Simulations indicate large-scale North Sea wind farms could alter regional rainfall patterns

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon used the high-resolution regional climate model COSMO-CLM to simulate the impact of extensive offshore wind farm expansion in the North Sea on precipitation. Based on a decade of weather data (2008-2017), the simulations suggest that while rainfall over the sea could increase, coastal regions might see decreased precipitation. The study, published in Communications Earth & Environment, emphasizes the need to plan wind energy expansion in harmony with environmental impacts.