DNV, a leading energy expert and assurance provider, announced the successful completion of Phase 1 of its Joint Industry Project (JIP) aimed at establishing comprehensive offshore substation standards tailored to the growing floating wind sector. This collaborative effort united 38 prominent companies from various sectors within the industry, emphasizing the collective resolve to address the distinctive challenges associated with floating offshore substations.

With the energy transition rapidly progressing, DNV's 2023 Energy Transition Outlook (ETO) forecasts a significant surge in floating offshore wind capacity, potentially exceeding 260 GW by 2050. Consequently, the demand for robust offshore substations is expected to grow, playing a pivotal role in the expansion of the floating wind sector by facilitating the interconnection of multiple wind turbines and the transmission of renewable energy to markets.

The primary outcomes of Phase 1 highlighted the feasibility of floating offshore substations (FOSS) and export cables, identified technology gaps requiring attention, and underscored the maturity of AC solutions in comparison to DC alternatives. Furthermore, the project conducted a comprehensive feasibility analysis encompassing generic floater types and dynamic export cable concepts. Leveraging the insights from Phase 1, DNV plans to integrate these findings into the upcoming updates of DNV-ST-0145 for floating substations and DNV-ST-0359 for dynamic cables, both scheduled for release in 2024.

Claus Christensen, Senior Chief Specialist at Ørsted and JIP Chairman, emphasized the significance of establishing standards in emerging industries, promoting innovation, competition, and ensuring safety and reliability. Highlighting the value of collaboration among industry leaders, Kristin Berg, Senior Principal Consultant at DNV and JIP project manager, stressed the collective understanding gained during the project, emphasizing the benefits of shared expertise in technology and standards development for the entire renewables sector.

Looking ahead, DNV has initiated Phase 2 of the JIP, inviting both previous and new participants to continue contributing to the development of comprehensive industry standards. Building upon the successes of Phase 1, Phase 2 aims to further refine standards and address evolving industry requirements, ultimately fostering the sustainable growth and scaling of floating offshore wind projects. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, DNV remains dedicated to driving industry-wide collaboration and fostering best practices for the renewables sector.