Offshore charging for both battery-powered crew transfer and service operation vessels could be on the horizon for wind farms of the future. This follows from two studies commissioned by ScottishPower Renewables.
The two reports – by MJR Power & Automation and Oasis Marine – are the last in a series of three commissioned by ScottishPower Renewables (SPR) to explore options for decarbonising and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from offshore wind farm operations.
Also read: Damen unveils offshore charging solution for electric CTVs
Electric SOVs and CTVs
The studies consolidated initial findings that the electrification of offshore operations was technically feasible using battery-powered service operation vessels (E-SOVs), which stay out at sea for extended periods.
They also looked at the potential to decarbonise offshore operations using electric crew transfer vessels (CTVs) that could be used for wind farms located closer to shore, with findings confirming that it is technically and operationally feasible.
In both scenarios, wind farms would also benefit environmentally and economically, with a significant reduction in both GHG emissions as well as annual fuel costs.
Ross Ovens, ScottishPower Renewables’ Managing Director for Offshore: ‘These latest studies have the potential to help the industry take a step closer to a new era for offshore wind farm operations – not just here in the UK, but right across the globe. The valuable depth and insight this research offers – regardless of whether you’re considering an SOV or CTV operating model – could help inform future wind farm operations as the country continues to build the green generation we need to meet the expected doubling of electricity demand.’
Also read: Shell and ScottishPower to develop first large-scale floating wind farm in the UK
Power Buoys reduce costs and emissions
The Oasis Marine study identified that, using electric CTVs enabled by installing Oasis Power Buoys in the wind farm, provides protection from volatile fossil fuel prices and the high costs of alternative green fuels; enabling costs to be predictable and in line with the operator’s business model. Its findings were based on the use of three electric CTVs instead of diesel-fuelled vessels at a case study wind farm. The study identified potential savings of 140,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions and fuel saving costs of around GBP 15 million (EUR 17.72 million) over the windfarm’s anticipated 25-year lifetime.
‘We’re pleased to have worked with ScottishPower Renewables to conduct this study into the technical and operational feasibility of installing Oasis Power Buoy as an offshore charging solution in one of their wind farms,’ says George Smith, Chief Technical Officer of Oasis Marine. ‘The study has concluded that the operations and maintenance activities of wind farms can be conducted by electric vessels. This is not only feasible, but can deliver strong environmental and economic benefits. The report summarises and generalises the findings and gives an excellent snapshot of where Oasis Marine’ offshore charging technology is today and the potential emission and cost savings it unlocks.’
Also read: Electrical retrofit allows crew transfer vessel to charge offshore
Operation Zero initiative
The findings are being shared through the Operation Zero initiative, which was launched at COP26 in Glasgow and brings together developers and supply chain companies committed to making zero-emission operations and maintenance vessels a reality.
Leo Hambro from the Operation Zero Steering Committee adds: ‘It’s great to see developers and the supply chain working together to develop the solutions and best practice that will be a game changer for the industry as a whole. Through studies like these, we will be able to learn, innovate and accelerate the adoption of zero-emission vessels and technologies to achieve a sustainable maritime future.’
Picture by MJR Power & Automation.
Also read: Damen presents SOV that can charge at offshore wind turbines
