About this Training Course
As countries accelerate their transition toward low-carbon energy systems, offshore wind has become one of the fastest-growing sources of renewable electricity worldwide. However, many of the world’s most abundant wind resources are in deep waters where conventional fixed-bottom foundations are not technically feasible. Floating Offshore Wind (FOW) has therefore emerged as a critical technology, enabling large-scale wind deployment in deeper seas and opening vast new areas for renewable energy development. Governments and energy companies across Europe, Asia, and the Americas are now investing heavily in floating wind as part of their long-term energy strategies.
The floating wind sector is rapidly evolving from pilot projects to commercial-scale developments. Advancements in turbine capacity, floating substructures, mooring systems, dynamic cables, and offshore installation techniques are driving improved performance and cost reductions. At the same time, industry players are exploring innovative commercial strategies, supply chain optimisation, and new energy vectors such as offshore hydrogen production to enhance project economics and reduce the Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE). These developments are shaping the future of offshore energy and creating new opportunities across the global energy value chain.
This 4-day comprehensive training programme provides an overview of floating offshore wind technology, project development, and operational considerations. Participants will gain practical insights into offshore site assessment, floating turbine systems, mooring and station-keeping solutions, power transmission technologies, marine installation operations, and project economics. By linking engineering fundamentals with market trends and commercial drivers, the course equips participants with the knowledge needed to understand and contribute to the development of floating offshore wind projects worldwide.
Q1. What is floating offshore wind?
A. Floating offshore wind uses turbines mounted on buoyant platforms. Anchors and mooring lines keep these platforms in position. Unlike fixed-bottom systems, floating wind can work in deeper waters. As a result, developers can use offshore areas that were previously hard to access for wind energy projects.
Q2. How is floating wind different from fixed-bottom offshore wind?
A. Fixed-bottom projects attach foundations directly to the seabed, so they suit shallow waters better. Floating wind uses substructures, anchors, and mooring lines instead. Therefore, floating wind farms can operate in deeper marine environments. However, engineers must manage motion, loads, and cable behavior more carefully.
Q3. What are the main advantages of floating wind farms?
A. First, floating wind farms open access to deeper waters with strong wind resources. In addition, projects can move farther from shore, which may reduce visual impact and expand siting options. The PDF also links floating offshore wind to offshore hydrogen, energy storage, and wider energy transition goals.
Q4. What technical challenges do floating wind projects face?
A. Floating wind projects must assess wind, waves, bathymetry, and seabed conditions before development begins. Engineers also need stable platforms, suitable mooring systems, and reliable dynamic cables. In addition, offshore installation and maintenance can be difficult in harsh marine conditions. Therefore, each floating wind project needs detailed planning and careful coordination.
Q5. What is the future outlook for floating offshore wind?
A. The outlook for floating offshore wind is strong because the industry is moving from pilot projects to larger commercial developments. According to the PDF, progress depends on better turbine capacity, floating platforms, mooring systems, installation methods, and supply chains. At the same time, the sector aims to reduce the Levelised Cost of Energy.