North Sea synergy – Surrounding countries debating over expansion
Europe counts on offshore wind energy, especially from the North Sea, to achieve the objectives of the European Green Deal. Some of the bordering countries recently met to discuss the expansion and future development of the sea.
Heading Offshore – The recent boom in the expansion of offshore wind energy
Global offshore wind activity is on the rise. Since 2021 the number of related projects in the pipeline has never been higher. Experts are already speaking of a boom that is being driven primarily by China, the UK, and the USA. But is this development just a flash in the pan or is it here to stay?
Firmly anchored – How are wind turbines anchored to the seabed?
Offshore turbines have to deal with a lot of stress – the strong sea winds, waves crashing against the turbine shaft, and the fact that it has to reach the ground of the ocean to be constructed. It is vital for a wind turbine to have a strong foundation so that it can withstand all these stressors. The question is, how?
No need to choose – Preserving species and fighting climate change
Wind energy is a driving force of the energy transition. Especially offshore wind parks have proven to be extremely promising due to their ability to produce massive amounts of energy. Yet, marine biologists are concerned about the influence the construction may have on the underwater environment. Does this mean we have to sacrifice climate protection for the sake of marine flora and fauna?
Islands in the (wind) stream – How islands are reforming their power production
Inhabitants of small islands are having a hard time meeting their power needs, as redirecting energy from the mainland is only possible using expensive submarine cables. Yet more and more islands are now home to wind farms. Winds, after all, tend to be strong and steady at sea. But it's not quite as simple as it sounds.
Inspecto-drones – How can drones support turbine maintenance?
Drones are fast, agile, and make light work of reaching high altitudes. But that doesn't necessarily mean they will revolutionize wind turbine maintenance overnight. Incidentally, we are still waiting for the big drone breakthrough in the industry. When is it going to happen?
No room? No worries! – Why hybrid offshore farms are making waves
In western Europe, the seasons are fairly predictable. Winds are higher in winter. Whereas in summer, the sun is out more often. While this might sound like stating the obvious, it is for this reason that a 16-company-strong consortium is planning to build the first hybrid offshore park off the Belgian coast.
Wind energy, ahoy! – Over 50 floating wind farms in planning worldwide
Wind energy is growing ever more efficient. This is especially true offshore, where wind conditions are almost always favorable. Most offshore wind farms are bedded near the coastline, but this article looks at an even more advantageous – and already existing – alternative. Read here about some of the world's floating wind farms.
BASF commits to offshore expansion – Huge strides for Germany’s industrial sector
German energy company RWE and chemical-producing giant BASF have put pen-to-paper on a letter of intent, which details plans to electrify the mass production of chemicals and hydrogen with green power harnessed at sea.
