What are the main challenges and benefits of floating offshore wind platforms compared to fixed-bottom ones?

2 Benefits of Floating Platforms

Floating platforms provide several advantages over fixed-bottom platforms, such as being able to access more wind resources in deeper and farther offshore locations with higher wind speed and capacity factor. Additionally, they can reduce the visual and noise impact of offshore wind farms due to their reduced visibility from the shore and lower sound propagation in water. Furthermore, they can avoid some of the environmental and social issues associated with seabed disturbance, marine life interference, and fishing rights due to their smaller footprint and less invasive installation methods. Finally, they can also lower the installation and decommissioning costs as they can be assembled and towed to the site instead of needing heavy-lift vessels or offshore cranes.

4 Current and Future Trends

Despite the challenges, floating platforms have a huge potential to expand the offshore wind market and contribute to the global energy transition. According to a recent report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), these platforms could account for up to 10% of global offshore wind capacity by 2040, and up to 40% by 2050. To drive this growth, there are various trends that need to be taken into consideration. For instance, larger and more efficient turbines can increase the power output and reduce the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of floating platforms. Furthermore, innovation and optimization of floating platform concepts, designs, and materials can improve their performance, stability, and durability. Additionally, standardization and modularization of floating platform components and systems can facilitate their manufacturing, assembly, and installation. Lastly, integration and coordination of floating platforms with other offshore energy systems can enhance their flexibility, resilience, and value.