Squid is designed to enable pre-installation of the moorings and cables, followed by fast hookup and disconnection of floating wind turbines. This is designed to reduce risk during offshore construction and simplify tow to port operations, strengthening project insurability.
During the trials at Ardersier, the Squid system was deployed subsea, raised and clamped into a full-scale floating I-tube structure configured to simulate the hull interface.
ABS’ assessments covered subsea ROV operations for varying scenarios, simulating the deployment through buoy hookup, latching and cable pull-in.
Earlier modeling studies, supported by developers and Scottish Enterprise, determined the system could reduce the levelized cost of energy (LCOE ) by up to 20% over the life of a development.
The milestone is significant because installation, hookup and maintenance procedures remain among the key cost drivers for floating offshore wind developments. Technologies that enable faster turbine connection and simpler tow-to-port operations are being closely watched as the industry prepares for larger commercial projects.
“Our ‘plug and play’ design is intended to remove some of the complexity and cost associated with floating wind operations, helping to address one of the key barriers to wider industry investment," said Ian Donald, managing director of Encomara. “This final technology-readiness stamp of approval from ABS validates that the Squid system can play a significant role in accelerating the commercialization of floating wind…”
