Study looks to cut offshore infrastructure risks

Mar 10, 2014

Xodus Group, Cathie Associates and UTEC Geomarine have set up a consortium in the United Kingdom to prepare a study that will focus on how to curtail the costs of generating electricity from offshore wind farms.

By Ritesh Gupta

The Carbon Trust’s Offshore Wind Accelerator is working towards reducing the cost of offshore wind by at least 10% by 2015. The objective of this project is to reduce the major risks associated with installed offshore infrastructure.

The three entities are going to assess currently available survey methodologies and specifications, review the equipment presently used in the offshore wind industry for cable installation and whether the equipment is appropriately specified.

Further, it will also look at what is being done to mitigate risk to the cable through the use of the Burial Protection Index (BPI) and, develop a methodology in line with new technology. Throughout the project a benchmark wind farm, which includes the key risks identified in the Round 3 wind farms, will be used to perform a cost benefit analysis.

Upcoming Events

Offshore Wind USA 2024

Boston, MA

Jun 17, 2024 to Jun 18, 2024

Latest Reports (Wind)

*Research note* Wind Energy Operations & Maintenance Costs

Long term contracts have led to a higher cost profile for asset owners and contracted asset owner, due to the “partial wrap” or “full wrap” component warranty for blades, gearboxes, and generators. However, the global COVID-19 pandemic has had some material impacts on this trend with OpEx budgets that were rapidly slashed. Has this affected you?
*Research Note* Wind Turbine OEMs: Reducing your bill of materials cost opens new markets

One of the most important tools they have to open new market is to reduce the bill of material costs. Drawing on an example from Nordex Acciona, the following research note takes a look at their global product sales pipeline, bill of materials reduction trends, global turbine price trends as well as buying patterns.
*Research Note* Global offshore wind energy market & commercial outlook

The global offshore wind energy market is undergoing a period of explosive growth. The market could grow to a total of 584GW installed if the industry finds a way to unlock the US $1.432 trillion in investment required to develop the proposed capacity additions.
*Research note* Offshore wind energy technology & supply chain outlook

Facing a period of tremendous growth, the offshore wind energy sector must continue to expand the supply chain to gain maximum global leverage and fulfil its potential. Understanding technology growth patterns and how to position yourself in this changing market landscape will be critical.