Floating offshore wind systems are becoming increasingly popular as a way to harness the power of the ocean’s energy. To enhance these systems, a Topic Area is being developed that focuses on innovative approaches to improve their design, manufacturing, installation, and operation.
One subtopic under this area is Subtopic 1a, which aims to refine and innovate floating platform design, manufacturing, and deployment processes. Research and development activities will focus on enhancing materials, manufacturing techniques, and installation methods for floating offshore wind systems. Testing may involve scale models or full-scale prototypes to validate improvements in the manufacturing procedures. Additionally, research and testing will explore the development of facilities and equipment for constructing and deploying various designs of floating offshore platforms.
Another subtopic under this area is Subtopic 1b, which will focus on next-generation integrated turbine/platform research. The goal is to create simpler, cost-effective designs that increase overall efficiency and energy production. Research topics may include the use of modeling tools and methods, testing procedures, and the exploration of new controls and materials to further enhance the integrated turbine/platform systems. By improving these systems through innovative approaches, we can reduce costs and enhance efficiency across various aspects of validation, fabrication, installation, and operation.