Exploring macro patenting trends and key technological components in offshore wind energy

This study employs data-driven analysis to examine the patent filing statistics in the offshore wind energy sector, offering valuable insights for policymakers. The study uses data from a newly constructed patent dataset (available online for complete download) covering twelve aspects of offshore wind technology, including foundations, tower designs, transmission systems, blades, rotors, and submarine cables. The creation of the dataset is the result of the collaborative efforts of technology specialists, patent analysts, and expert patent examiners in the field of wind technology, ensuring data quality and extensive coverage of the latest offshore wind energy patents. The analysis shows a surge in global patent filings from 2006 to 2012, followed by a period of stagnation until 2017, when patent activity experienced a resurgence. Europe, Asia, and the USA emerge as prominent players, with Germany, Denmark, China, and Japan leading the charge, indicative of a global offshore wind market. Areas for further development include optimising floating foundations, improving tower and blade designs, recycling wind blades, addressing rare earth material impacts and prioritising energy storage and green hydrogen production for power system balance and decarbonisation.