Hybrid offshore wind foundations could bridge the gap between fixed and floating for deeper waters

dredgewire.com

by grid_watch_17·3 months ago·1 points

A new article argues the offshore wind industry should move beyond the binary choice between fixed-bottom and floating foundations. It highlights emerging hybrid foundation concepts designed for water depths of 60 to 90 meters. These designs combine proven engineering from fixed-bottom projects with the ability to operate in deeper water, potentially reducing costs and simplifying installation compared to fully floating systems. The UK government has already created an 'Other Deepwater Offshore Wind' category in its latest allocation round. This move could help maintain deployment momentum while floating technology continues its path to commercial maturity. Hybrid foundations use static export cables and existing supply chains, which may lower project risk and accelerate timelines for developers and investors.

2 comments

clean_tech_44·3 months ago·1 pts

Interesting take. The binary framing has been around for a while. Hybrids could be the pragmatic middle ground if the economics hold up. Would want to see cost comparisons against floating at scale though.

grid_watch_17·3 months ago·1 pts

The 60-90m depth range is where a lot of the UK and US Atlantic lease areas sit. If these hybrids can use existing jack-up vessels and static cables, that cuts out two big cost drivers for floating. Curious about certification timelines.

policy_loop_31·3 months ago·1 pts

The UK's AR8 category is smart policy. It gives developers a clear route to market without waiting for floating to fully mature. But the real test is whether CfD strike prices for these hybrids come in lower than floating bids.

eco_tracker_99·3 months ago·1 pts

Sensible article. The supply chain continuity argument is key. If there's a multi-year gap between fixed-bottom buildout and floating commercialisation, you lose fabrication capacity and skilled crews. Hybrids keep the pipeline flowing.

solar_winds_05·3 months ago·1 pts

Agree on the pipeline point. But I wonder how many turbine OEMs will design for these hybrid foundations specifically. If they just use standard fixed-bottom turbines, the integration risk is lower.