Celtic Sea - Installation of Floating Offshore Wind Turbines

Floating offshore wind turbines are part of the future for marine renewable energy. Both demonstrator and pre commercial floating wind turbines are being considered for installation in the Celtic Sea. As the floating offshore wind turbine industry continues to develop, the capabilities of new crane vessels can play a crucial role in their installation. This presentation assesses current installation vessel requirements and capabilities in particular for installing the moorings and sub sea cables . The water depths, average wind speed and potential areas of the Celtic Sea are discussed. The naval architecture aspects of floating wind turbine installation for tow out include intact stability, bollard pull and motions. In addition as the floating offshore wind turbine is being installed there are motion considerations of connecting mooring lines and electrical cables. The floating offshore wind industry is in early stages of development and installation vessel requirements are still being considered. The presentation discusses the potential of different floating offshore wind substructures types for installation in the Celtic Sea.