Integrated Optimization of Layout and Inter-Array Cable Design for Floating Offshore Wind Farms

Floating offshore wind farms enable large-scale renewable energy generation in deep waters, where bottom-fixed solutions are not feasible. Their techno-economic performance depends on maximizing annual energy production while minimizing lifetime costs. In floating systems, turbine layout, inter-array cable routing, and depth-dependent mooring costs are strongly coupled. However, they are commonly optimized separately. This work presents a coupled layout-cable routing optimization framework based on a genetic algorithm. Cable routing is solved through a nested heuristic procedure, enabling explicit interaction between turbine placement, cable topology, and mooring costs. The genetic algorithm is benchmarked against a random search strategy to assess solution quality and computational cost. The framework is applied to a deep-water case study offshore Sicily (Italy), characterized by complex bathymetry. Results show that water depth variations and cable routing decisions significantly affect optimal layouts and cost distribution, highlighting the importance of integrated optimization for floating offshore wind farm design.