Floating Offshore Wind
Floating offshore wind is a renewable energy technology that presents a huge opportunity to grow global renewable energy production using previously untapped wind resource.
It can help the world transition from carbon emitting fossil fuels to clean, green energy.
The technology
Floating Offshore Wind is often referred to as FLOW, FOW or Floating Wind.
Unlike fixed offshore wind, where turbines are fixed to the seabed, turbines are instead fixed on top of floating platforms that are anchored to the seabed. The below graphic outlines some of the structure’s key characteristics.
The bENEFITS
turbines in deeper waters
Almost 80% of the world’s wind resource is in water deeper than 60 metres.
Fixed offshore wind is limited to shallower waters due to cost, technology and installation challenges.
The development of floating offshore wind allows turbines to be placed in waters that were previously inaccessible.
reduced visual impact
Floating offshore wind will generally be developed further offshore.
It means turbines will be less visible from the coast, so they’re less likely to spoil your view.
Access to stronger and more consistent winds
Floating offshore wind farms are generally built in areas where there are stronger and more consistent winds.
It means more clean, green energy can be produced.
clean, green energy
Switching to floating offshore wind will reduce carbon emissions, helping Wales and the UK reach Net Zero targets and help tackle the effects of climate change.
It will reduce our reliance on imported energy and make us more resilient to economic shocks that can affect energy prices.
Economic benefits and jobs creation
Floating offshore wind has the potential to create thousands of jobs and provide opportunities for local businessses.
Local economies around Wales and the UK could see enormous benefits.
the challenges
The floating offshore wind industry shows great promise but currently faces significant challenges, some of which we’ve outlined below.
Developers, ports, governments, supply chain and academia are committed to working together to tackle these challenges, alongside key stakeholders and members of the public.
Supply chain and workforce
FLOW requires a specialised supply chain and a skilled workforce for the development, construction, installation and maintenance of wind farms.
Environmental impact
Floating offshore wind farms have the potential to impact the environment, including marine life and their habitats.Â
Developers will be responsible for conducting in-depth research known as Environmental Impact Assessments to evaluate their project’s potential imact.
infrastructure upgrades
FLOW requires turbines and foundations to be assembled in deep-water ports.
Whilst the UK has several, many still require significant investment and upgrades to develop the specialist infrastructure required to support the industry.
High costs
Floating offshore wind is a new technology, therefore it is currently more expensive to develop, construct and install compared to other more well-established renewable energy technologies.
The development of stepping-stone projects will drive costs down through learning and innovation.
the process
A floating offshore wind farm takes approximately 10 years to complete from start to finish.
Below we’ve outlined some of the key stages of the process.
scoping
- Initial studies are carried out on potential sites for the wind farm.
site leasing
- Seabed rights are secured through Crown Estate leasing processes.
development
- Work begins on a detailed design of the wind farm, including initial discussions with key contractors and grid agreements.
Pre-consenting studies
- Environmental data on the proposed site is gathered.
consenting
- The consenting process begins.
contract for difference (CFD)
- The developer must now acquire a CfD through the now annual competitive allocation process.
key contract procurement
- Formal procurement begins of turbines, components, installation / operating base and key services.
Final Investment decision
- This is typically made once financing is secured, contracts with key suppliers are finalised and all approvals are in place.
construction
- Depending on the size of the project, this could be phased. Construction generally takes around 2-3 years to complete.
operation
- The wind farm is now officially in operation, generating clean, green electricity to the UK grid. Operation can last anywhere between 25 and 30 years.
Decommissioning
Resources
There’s so much happening off our coast when it comes to marine renewable energy, and floating offshore wind could provide huge benefits to our communities.
As the sector grows, it’s more important than ever that we all understand the challenges and opportunities these innovative technologies bring.
Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum’s Marine Energy Engagement Plan is bringing together local communities and stakeholders to work together and discuss who we can all stay informed and engaged.
CSDA
The Celtic Sea Developer Alliance (CSDA) is a tier within our membership for developers with an interest in floating offshore wind (FLOW) projects in the Celtic Sea.
It promotes the opportunity and acts as a single voice to influence government policy and strengthen stakeholder engagement.