DNV GL unveils class rules for floating offshore wind

The rules, DNVGL-RU-OU-0512, provide new entrants and experienced stakeholders with a set of well-tested rules and standardised processes for these new structures.

DNV GL Maritime chief executive Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen said, “Floating offshore wind is poised to be one of the key technologies that can help build the renewable energy power base that underpins global decarbonisation.

“By bringing new players into the sector, floating offshore wind can create a massive space of opportunity for yards, vessel operators, and offshore companies.

“Unleashing this industry will require businesses from many different sectors and new types of standards to enhance cross-sector co-operation. Our new rules build from this foundation – bringing together offshore, energy, maritime and digital expertise to form a truly integrated rule set.”

The new rules apply standardised well-proven maritime processes and apply them to floating wind. “Owners, designers and manufacturers will benefit from being able to shift into this exciting new segment, while having a familiar framework so that new processes can be seamlessly integrated into their existing production structures,” said DNV GL.

“The rules are flexible enough to cover all potential hull shapes, including barge, semi-submersible, vertical floating columns (Spars) and tension-leg platform.

“The basic classification scope covers the floating structure, including mooring systems, with an additional voluntary class notation covering the power generation system, including the tower. The rules are also designed to scale – considering not just the individual units but the entire field with data-based services and condition-based monitoring and through linking with fatigue methodology sensor data.

DNV GL Maritime director of offshore classification Geir Fuglerud said, “Scaling up floating offshore wind will depend on empowering interested businesses with the confidence to take on a new challenge.

“This is one of the great strengths of our new rules. As the first truly integrated rule set for floating offshore wind we draw on many different types standards from different sectors. This means that the new rules do not shut out the other sectors that need to work together to realise a floating offshore wind project – but expand to bring them all together.

“Because the rules are part of DNV GL class, we can provide tailored in-service follow-up. This also enables operators to demonstrate they are continuing to meet an expert independent quality standard through using risk-based inspection techniques and data driven service.”

A description of the rules and links can be found here.