UK-based Tadek Ocean Engineering has produced a study on floating offshore wind platforms for Welsh company Marine Power Systems (MPS).
The report evaluates tension leg platforms (TLP) long-term performance compared to semi-submersible alternatives for floating offshore wind turbines (FOWT).
It includes an analysis of various aspects such as platform dimensions, assembly, and manufacturing setups, port and quayside operations, towing and stability, mooring and cable installations, and mooring hook-up and operational efficiency.
Also, the report analyzed the advantages and disadvantages of both SemiSub’s and MPS’ PelaFlex TLP systems throughout different operational stages.
The report emphasizes PelaFlex’s advantages, such as its smaller footprint and better stability after installation, which are important for maximizing turbine output, optimizing operational efficiency, and ensuring the long-term reliability of critical components.
It also suggests options for streamlining the installation process. Overall, the report concludes that PelaFlex holds promise as a viable solution, with better performance and efficiency across various project scenarios.
MPS’ PelaFlex platform, which received a Statement of Feasibility from DNV in September 2023, is also part of MPS’ collaboration with Baker Hughes for the electrification of oil & gas facilities and their supporting subsea systems.
Tadek’s Senior Engineer Nigel Terry commented on the study:
“We frequently see comparisons between different floating offshore wind systems, but few studies look at the key aspects we are covering which are critical to a commercially viable FOWT project. Utilising a tool developed in-house, we were able to size a Semi-Submersible floater to perform a broad series of comparative studies with MPS’s PelaFlex platform.”
In terms of recent news coming from Tadek, the company has created a mooring and cable solution for the Renewables for Subsea Power (RSP) project which combines wave energy and subsea storage to power subsea equipment.
After a 12-month test program off the coast of Scotland, the £2 million (approximately $2.5 million) project aims to conclude this spring.