Entrion Wind and EEW have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) through which EEW will join in on the ongoing demonstration studies in Kristiansand, Norway for the patent-pending fully restrained platform (FRP) offshore wind foundation technology.
Under the MoU, the two companies will jointly cooperate to evaluate monopile dimensions and supply a monopile for testing the top mooring assembly (TMA) for tensioning and connecting the mooring system to the FRP monopile.
Subject to completion of the TMA study and technical findings, EEW may assist in the overall planning, detailed design, and identification of a demonstrator location, and cooperate in seeking public financing for a full FRP demonstration project.
EEW may also partake in studies to evaluate existing and prospective international fabrication capacity to support the fabrication, transportation, and installation of FRP based monopiles.
”Entrion Wind is pleased to welcome EEW as a partner in the ongoing demonstration studies as well as a strategic partner to promote and actively engage in strategic discussion evaluating the FRP monopile technology. EEW’s expertise, history, focus and strategy as a pioneer and a leading international fabricator of offshore wind foundations makes the company a preferred strategic partner for Entrion Wind,” said Eivind Johnsen, CEO of Entrion Wind.
The FRP monopile concept combines fixed and floating platform technologies for applications in up to 100 metres of water depth.
The foundation’s main components include a monopile with an air-can (AC) in one piece, a transition piece with a load ring, and a mooring system which can either be taut moorings with pile anchors or taut moorings with suction piles.
”EEW is excited to work with Entrion Wind representing a new and innovative technology aiming to extend the operating depth and favourable economics and supply chain of the monopile from 50 – 100 meters. The technology may be a good fit for our strategy of establishing international fabrication capacity at select locations and contribute decisively to the global expansion of renewable energy,” said Michael Hof , Managing Director at EEW.