ABS has awarded an approval in principle (AIP) to Encomara for its innovative Squid™ system. This system adapts established disconnectable mooring technology to support the deployment of floating offshore wind turbines.
Incorporating the existing Disconnectable Turret Buoy (DTB) concept commonly used in floating production projects, the Squid™ system seeks to improve safety and reduce complexity during the installation and off-station processes of floating wind turbines by employing familiar offshore technology and installation strategies.
Innovation in proven technologies
The field of floating offshore wind is progressing rapidly, and the development of disconnectable systems is crucial for safe and efficient installation.
Rob Langford, ABS Vice President, Global Offshore Renewables, expressed support: “Floating offshore wind continues to evolve rapidly, and innovation in proven technologies such as disconnectable systems plays an important role in supporting safe and efficient deployment." Langford further noted ABS's commitment to assisting Encomara through their AIP process, offering early-stage technical review and Class requirements.
Benefits for offshore turbine operators
ABS AIP certification signifies that the design adheres to international offshore standards
Ian Donald, Managing Director of Encomara, highlighted the potential impact of the system: “The potential efficiency gains, not to mention improvements in project scheduling for offshore turbine operators, could be game-changing. This is a prime example of drawing on decades of North Sea oil and gas engineering heritage and repurposing it to support energy transition through the faster roll-out of offshore wind turbines."
He added that achieving the ABS AIP certification signifies that the design adheres to international offshore standards, marking a significant milestone in realising the potential of the Squid™ system.
ABS: Offshore Expertise and Innovation
With over 70 years of experience, ABS continues to provide comprehensive offshore services that assess new and emerging solutions, aiding in the safe management of assets for offshore operations.
This approval underscores ABS's dedication to fostering innovation within the offshore sector, supporting safer and more efficient energy solutions.
