A Proposal for Alternative Navigation Routes Following the Development of Offshore Wind Farms in the Waters of the Republic of Korea

In the future, electricity generation through eco-friendly renewable energy will accelerate. Surrounded by sea on three sides, the Republic of Korea is gaining attention for offshore wind power as a future industry, leveraging advantages of its maritime environment. However, maritime navigation remains active in waters, with maritime transportation being crucial, as it accounts for over 95% of the country’s cargo volume. Therefore, ensuring the safety of vessel operations is vital when constructing offshore wind farms. This study proposed alternative routes to ensure the safety of vessels and secure existing routes in the waters of the southwestern sea, where intensive development of OWFs is expected. The routes were determined based on the Permanent International Association of Navigation Congresses (PIANC) Guidelines and Maritime Traffic Safety Act’s implementation guidelines. Clearance between a maritime route and OWF was set to the rule of 6 L + 0.3 NM + 500 m for safety. The route width was calculated while considering vessel maneuverability, environmental factors, seabed conditions, the depth-to-draft ratio, and two-way traffic. The alternative routes were categorized into four types—maritime highways, maritime provincial routes, approach routes for departure/arrival, and recommended routes based on vessel positions, engine status, and route function. By considering traffic flow and applying international and domestic standards, these routes will ensure safe, efficient, and orderly vessel operations.