A study by Fred Olsen and software simulation experts Shoreline has found what they say is the best operations and maintenance solution for large offshore wind farms.
The use of an offshore accommodation platform combined with fast in-field vessels will be key to maximising efficiencies for large, far-from-shore wind farms, the companies said.
The O&M simulation was performed in collaboration with a major developer and based on 100, 200 and 300 projects in the UK.
Three scenarios with different marine logistics combinations were modelled. They comprised a single service operation vessel with on-board accommodation and access to a helipad, two walk-to work-vessels working alongside an offshore accommodation platform and three large 30 metre crew transfer vessels working alongside an offshore platform.
The key finding of the simulation, which used a maintenance strategy with specific work order priorities, emergency response time limits and two types of technicians, was that time availability was highest in the third scenario.
“All three scenarios performed with relatively high time based results, but the best availability – nearly 98% – was with the scenario employing three CTVs combined with an offshore accommodation platform,” Fred Olsen Windbase project director David Matthews said.
Image: Fred Olsen Windcarrier
Fred Olsen unveils O&M study
Best logistics combination for large, distant offshore wind projects identified
By EBS