Opportunities and challenges in floating wind Eirik Byklum – 27 November 2012
Foundations for floating wind Spar buoys From 100 m water depth Hywind Demo (2009) Semi-submersibles From 40 m water depth WindFloat Demo (2011) Tension leg floaters From 60 m water depth Scale test under planning Classification: Internal
Installation Bottom-fixed foundations Offshore installation of foundation Offshore installation of WTG Offshore commisioning Floating foundations Inshore assembly Tow-out of complete unit Large part of commisioning onshore Classification: Internal
Environment Bottom-fixed foundations Piling noise during installation Often in sight from land Larger seabed footprint Floating foundations No piling needed Can be placed out of sight Smaller seabed footpring Classification: Internal
Fabrication and technology Bottom-fixed foundations Adaption needed for each unit Proven technology Floating foundations Standardized, mass production Less mature technology, need pilots Classification: Internal
Cost reduction pathway
Main cost reduction areas for floating wind Concept development Upscaling Design optimization Mooring systems Cost-efficient fabrication Fabrication friendly design Efficient mass production Assembly and installation Efficient installation vessels Onshore assembly
Conclusions Large offshore wind resources located in deep waters Floating wind has advantages in terms of fabrication, installation and environment Currently higher CAPEX, but cost-competitive in the future
Eirik Byklum Technology Manager Floating Wind