Lift-based offshore vertical-axis wind turbines for power generation: Current status of technology and future direction of numerical research

The vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are regarded as the best feasible alternative for small-scale power generation due to their design simplicity, ease of installation, good self-starting ability, and independency from wind direction among others. The dilemma of limited land, low onshore wind speed, and the abundance of high-speed wind near the ocean encouraged the researchers to explore the offshore fields. As a result, the lift-based VAWTs are becoming increasingly popular for large-scale offshore wind power production as well as small-scale urban applications. In the present review article, the historical evolution of lift-based offshore VAWTs from their inception to recent advancement has been discussed. The related geometrical and aerodynamic parameters, various loadings, and numerous models utilized in the design and analysis of offshore VAWTs have also been systematically reviewed. Finally, the challenges and the future scope of numerical research have been highlighted.