Xodus Group has completed an inter-array cables installation study for Equinor’s Empire Wind Phase 1 offshore wind project in New York.
Xodus was tasked with maturing the inter-array cable installation concept to identify technical solutions or installation methodologies that may add value to the project if introduced at an early stage.
The company said it had developed a study for cable loadout, installation, logistics and the accommodation strategy, as well as provided schedule estimates for installation and testing.
“Early engagement with the supply chain is crucial in reducing costs and risk in offshore wind projects. We commend Equinor in taking the initiative to engage with us at the formative stage of the project where the cost of change is low, but the ability to influence is high,” said James Hunt , Xodus’ Global Interconnector and Cables Lead.
“Trust in our experts allowed us to challenge traditional thinking and give real-time feedback through a series of workshop sessions. These factors allowed us to support Equinor in developing project designs and approaches which can deliver significant long-term efficiencies, safely.”
Equinor was selected to develop the 816 MW Empire Wind Phase 1 project in New York’s first-ever offshore wind solicitation in 2019.
Empire Wind is located 15-30 miles southeast of Long Island and spans 80,000 ha, with water depths of between 65 and 131 feet. The lease was acquired in 2017 and is being developed in two phases.
The partnership of Equinor and BP was also recently chosen as the winner of the state’s second offshore wind solicitation, to develop the 1,260 MW Empire Wind 2 and the 1,230 MW Beacon Wind 1 projects.