Floating wind ‘no longer the default option’ for deepwater windfarms

TGS | 4C says its research re-examined the global offshore wind resource, considering advances in deep-water fixed-bottom and hybrid technologies, challenging long-held assumptions about the dominance of floating wind in deeper waters. 

“Historically, waters beyond 50 m have been considered the domain of floating offshore wind. However, new technologies are extending the viable range of fixed-bottom and hybrid solutions, opening a broader portion of the global seabed to alternative development approaches,” TGS | 4C said.

A global map included in the analysis highlights the distribution of suitable offshore wind resources in water depths between 60 m and 400 m, illustrating how significant portions of the world’s wind potential could be accessible to multiple competing technologies.

The findings show that while more than 70% of global wind resources have traditionally been associated with floating wind, this share could fall significantly as hybrid and deep-water fixed-bottom technologies mature.

In this evolving landscape, says TGS | 4C, floating wind is expected to remain an important part of the offshore mix, but no longer the default solution for deeper waters.

The analysis also highlights a concentration of deep-water opportunities in a small number of markets, such as the US and Canada. Among more active markets, the UK stands out as a key area for development.

As a result, competition between foundation technologies is expected to increase, with cost, deployability and site conditions becoming key differentiators in project selection. 

Hybrid solutions, in particular, are emerging as a potential bridge between traditional fixed-bottom and floating technologies, offering cost advantages in certain depth ranges.

TGS | 4C senior analyst Jordan may said, “The industry is entering a phase where technology choice will play a much larger role in determining project viability.”

TGS | 4C managing director Ivar Slengesol said that, as new solutions extend into deeper waters, developers will need to reassess assumptions around site suitability and long-term deployment strategies.