Analysis of the Cost Impact of Pre-Clustering Methods on Inter-Array Network Optimization in Offshore Wind Farms with Multiple OSS(offshore substation)s

This paper analyzes the effect of pre-clustering methods on inter-array network optimization in offshore wind farms with multiple offshore substations (OSSs). A binary integer programming (BIP)-based model is used to compare integrated optimization with distance-based and angle-based pre-clustering followed by separate optimization of each cluster. Case studies are conducted for 60 MW and 400 MW offshore wind farms. In both cases, an additional OSS is assumed to be asymmetrically placed. In the 60 MW case, distance-based clustering yields a total cost comparable to that of integrated optimization, whereas angle-based clustering increases the total cost. In the 400 MW case, integrated optimization achieves the lowest total cost. The results show that pre-clustering can restrict cable routing and cable type selection, leading to less economical inter-array network designs.