Floating offshore wind turbines port requirements for construction

Abstract

Floating offshore wind is an emerging technology that holds considerable potential to utilise areas deeper than 60 m for sustainable energy generation. As the floating offshore wind turbine industry continues to develop and grow, the capabilities of established port facilities need to be assessed as to their ability to support the expanding construction and installation requirements. This article assesses current infrastructure requirements and projected changes to port facilities that may be required to support the floating offshore wind industry. Understanding the infrastructure needs will help to identify the port-related requirements. Floating offshore wind turbines can be installed further out to sea and in deeper waters than traditional fixed offshore wind arrays, meaning they can take advantage of stronger winds and additional sea locations. Separate ports are required for substructure construction and fit-out of the turbines and maintenance. Large areas are required, about twice the plan area of the structure, for the laydown of mooring equipment, inter array cables, turbine blades and nacelles. The capabilities of established port facilities to support floating wind farms can be assessed by evaluation of size of substructures, height of wind turbine with regards to the cranes for fitting of blades, distance to offshore site and offshore installation vessel characteristics. Spar, barge, TLP and semisubmersible types have been deployed as demonstration units. Pre commercial units have been installed off the coasts of Portugal and the east coast of Scotland. This article reviews and defines the port and shipyard requirements for floating offshore wind turbines. It will support decision-makers to guide port infrastructure investments and project developers in their site selections. There up to 15 port functions that need to be considered, for construction, assembly and support of offshore activities. These could be fulfilled by one or a combination of different ports.