US energy contractor Morrison has been awarded a contract by Aikido Technologies to work on the Aikido One floating wind project.
The project will aim to demonstrate how Aikido’s platform can enable offshore wind project developers to increase the speed of deployment and reduce costs.
Morrison will be responsible for the fabrication of a 1:4 scale 100kW floating wind platform.
Morrison Fabrication in Harvey, Louisiana, will carry out fabrication of the unit, which is planned to occur over Q2 and Q3 2024, culminating with a test programme upon completion of fabrication.
Sam Kanner, CEO of Aikido, said: “The Aikido One Demonstrator will be a transformational project for the US offshore wind industry for two reasons: first, it represents the largest floating wind platform constructed in the US to date; second, it is the world’s first upending semi-submersible platform.
“Proving this concept in realistic conditions will show how the Aikido Platform can solve challenges facing the floating wind industry in the US and around the world, relating to serial production and limited port space. We are thrilled to be working with such an experienced and well-respected firm as Morrison.”
Chet Morrison, CEO of Morrison, said: “Aikido is an innovative company that is bringing something unique to the market.
“We are excited to work with Sam and the entire Aikido team on their concept.”
The Aikido Platform is a semi-submersible platform that can transport a fully assembled floating wind turbine horizontally.
In its transport configuration, the unit fits within PANAMAX restrictions, which means it can fit into shallow water ports-even under bridges and those with air draft restrictions.
Upending the platform requires ballasting the platform with seawater.
Aikido is also designing a floating-specific wind turbine that can reduce the cost and weight of a floating platform by 25%.
The nacelle is designed to be transported horizontally, pairing with the Aikido Platform concept.