Multiple-use-of Space for Island Clean Autonomy

Project Information

MUSICA

Grant agreement ID: 862252

DOI

10.3030/862252

EC signature date 23 August 2019

Start date 1 January 2020

End date 31 January 2028

Funded under

• SOCIETAL CHALLENGES - Food security, sustainable agriculture and forestry, marine, maritime and inland water research, and the bioeconomy

Total cost

€ 10 976 611,60

EU contribution

€ 8 999 705,00

Coordinated by

PANEPISTIMIO AIGAIOU
Greece

Periodic Reporting for period 3 - MUSICA (Multiple-use-of Space for Island Clean Autonomy)

Reporting period: 2023-10-01 to 2024-09-30

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

The MUSICA project aims to Bring Sustainability to Small Islands through a unique system that provides clean energy generation (wind, solar, and wave), drinking water (turning sea water into clean potable water through nano-ultrafiltration), and support for sustainable fish farming further offshore. Its core idea is a "Multi-Use Platform" (MUP) that combines all of the above and promotes multi use of valuable sea space. MUSICA aligns with the Blue Growth initiative by promoting clean energy, sustainable water management, and responsible fish farming by utilizing conscientiously ocean resources. MUSICA embraces Responsible Research and Innovation by actively involving the islanders in the project, ensuring their concerns and needs are addressed. It promotes knowledge networks including the island's citizens and society, industry, research, and government forming a quadruple helix (QH).
The key goals are to:
- Develop and test this system on a real island (Oinousses, Greece) to ensure its effectiveness.
- Make the system readily available and attractive for other islands to adopt by reducing risks for future operators and investors.
- Create a long-lasting and sustainable solution that benefits island communities' environment, economy, and social well-being.
- Empower small islands to become more self-sufficient and resilient, leading towards a more viable ecosystem.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

At first, the available resources have been assessed and possible system configurations have been techno-economically evaluated. The optimal installation site has been selected using a multi-criteria approach. Environmental impact has been thoroughly assessed and the necessary permits have been obtained.
Following an iterative spiral design methodology and evaluating several alternatives, we have achieved a suitable design of the floating multi-use platform and its subsystems that meet all requirements and constraints. Then the designs were further optimized through simulations.
The construction of the floating multi-use platform is progressing and the necessary components for each subsystem are being procured and integrated. We have addressed cost pressures by mitigating the impact of global price increases.
Testing of subsystems is in progress. An extensive testing plan will ensure reliable and safe operation adhering to the developed health and safety plan. Testing of subsystems is in progress
Public engagement activities and stakeholder consultations addressed community concerns. Strong local interest led to the Municipality of Oinousses joining the project, aligning new local infrastructure projects with MUSICA for further benefits.
Market studies are exploring potential applications in various regions, and a more modular platform design is being studied for easier replication in distant locations.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

MUSICA aims to push the boundaries of existing technology by:
• Pioneering the development of the first-ever multi-use floating platform designed to provide both clean electricity, water and food for small islands (up to 2,000 inhabitants).
• Integrating multiple innovative technologies within the floating platform to ensure both technical and economic feasibility.
• Creating an advanced autonomous control system, encompassing a sophisticated energy management system, island-centric demand-side management system, and SCADA system.
• Demonstrating an economically viable and ecologically sound desalination solely powered by renewable energy from the floating platform.
• Pioneering hydro-pneumatic energy storage to complement traditional battery storage in renewable energy projects, fostering a dependable energy and water supply.
• Integrating wave energy with wind and solar power, creating a unique and synergistic energy mix within the floating platform.
• Fusing renewable energy with offshore aquaculture through innovative cages and service solutions, exemplifying the "Blue Growth" concept.
Expected Results:
• Successful pilot demonstration of the multi-use floating platform at Oinousses Island, providing reliable and sustainable electricity and water.
• Advancement of knowledge in multi-use floating platform design, integration, and management, fostering future development in this field.
• Widespread adoption of the multi-use floating platform solution by other small islands globally, enhancing their energy and water autonomy.
Potential Impacts:
Socio-economic:
• Increased energy and water security for small island communities, promoting economic development and attracting investments.
• Job creation through the training, construction, operation, and maintenance of multi-use floating platforms.
• Reduced reliance on fossil fuels and associated costs, leading to long-term economic benefits.
• Blue Growth promotion by combining an offshore renewable energy mix with aquaculture innovations to provide true multiple use of marine space.
Societal:
• Improved living standards for islanders through access to reliable electricity and water.
• Reduced environmental impact by promoting renewable energy and sustainable water management.
• Empowerment of island communities by fostering self-reliance and resilience.
Overall, MUSICA has the potential to revolutionize the way small islands access essential resources, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future.

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