Innovations and lessons in floating wind turbine technology: Insights from offshore oil and gas station-keeping systems

Floating wind turbines represent a promising solution for harnessing wind energy in deep offshore locations. This review explores the innovations and lessons learned from offshore oil and gas floating systems and their applications in floating wind turbine technology. This study examines the evolution of floaters and station-keeping systems that have been successfully employed in the oil and gas industry for decades. By analysing these established technologies, we identified the vital adaptations and improvements necessary for their implementation in floating wind turbines. This review also highlights the importance of robust and flexible mooring systems capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions while allowing optimal turbine positioning. Furthermore, it addresses the challenges of scaling up these technologies for large-scale floating wind farms, including cost-effectiveness, maintenance strategies, and environmental impact mitigation. Innovative materials and design solutions that can reduce the mass and enhance the overall performance of floating platforms are essential. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for the development of next-generation floating wind turbines, offering a pathway to expand renewable energy production in previously inaccessible offshore areas. The floating wind turbine sector can accelerate technological advancement and contribute significantly to the global transition towards sustainable energy sources by leveraging the expertise and lessons gained from the oil and gas industry.