Offshore Wind Blade Testing and Inspection Workshop Offshore wind blade testing and inspection is a critical aspect of ensuring the reliability and longevity of wind turbines in harsh marine environments. This process involves a range of techniques and considerations, including blade manufacturing, materials science, aerodynamics, structural integrity, and environmental factors. Keywords related to this field encompass blade design, composite materials (fiberglass, carbon fiber, resin), manufacturing processes (layup, molding, infusion), quality control, non-destructive testing (NDT), ultrasonic testing (UT), phased array ultrasonic testing (PAUT), eddy current testing (ET), radiographic testing (RT), thermography, visual inspection, borescope inspection, crack detection, delamination, fatigue testing, static testing, dynamic testing, bend testing, tensile testing, shear testing, buckling, vibration analysis, modal analysis, finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), blade aerodynamics, lift, drag, turbulence, wind loads, extreme weather conditions (storms, icing), salt spray corrosion, UV degradation, erosion, leading edge erosion, trailing edge damage, lightning strike protection, blade repair, blade maintenance, offshore operations, remote sensing, drone inspection, aerial inspection, underwater inspection, robotics, automation, data analysis, predictive maintenance, condition monitoring, structural health monitoring (SHM), sensors, strain gauges, accelerometers, acoustic emission, oil and gas industry parallels, marine environment, offshore wind farms, renewable energy, sustainable energy, wind energy technology, levelized cost of energy (LCOE), energy production, grid integration, safety, risk assessment, certification, standards (IEC, DNV GL), regulatory compliance, blade transportation, blade installation, offshore logistics, metocean data, weather forecasting, blade optimization, performance analysis, cost-effectiveness, lifecycle assessment, failure analysis, root cause analysis, warranty claims, insurance, offshore wind technicians, blade specialists, training, safety procedures, access systems, working at height, confined space entry, personal protective equipment (PPE), emergency response, search and rescue, environmental impact, marine ecosystems, noise pollution, visual impact, stakeholder engagement, community relations, permitting, environmental regulations, offshore wind development, project planning, due diligence, feasibility studies, risk management, supply chain, manufacturing capacity, logistics, port infrastructure, vessel availability, heavy lift vessels, jack-up vessels, crew transfer vessels, cable laying vessels, offshore construction, commissioning, operation and maintenance (O&M), service agreements, spare parts, inventory management, logistics optimization, digitalization, data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), digital twins, simulation, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), remote operations centers, autonomous systems, robotics in offshore wind, underwater robotics, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), oceanographic surveys, bathymetry, seabed mapping, geotechnical investigations, environmental monitoring, marine mammals, bird strikes, wildlife protection, environmental impact assessment (EIA), social impact assessment (SIA), community benefits, job creation, local content, supply chain development, economic development, sustainable development goals (SDGs), climate change mitigation, decarbonization, energy transition, green energy, clean energy, renewable energy targets, policy support, government incentives, offshore wind industry, global market, market trends, technological advancements, research and development, innovation, collaboration, knowledge sharing, best practices, industry standards, safety culture, continuous improvement, operational excellence, asset integrity management, risk-based inspection, reliability-centered maintenance, predictive maintenance strategies, condition-based maintenance, life extension, repowering, decommissioning, end-of-life management, circular economy, recycling, waste management, environmental sustainability, social responsibility, corporate governance, ethical business practices, transparency, accountability, stakeholder engagement, community involvement, social license to operate, public acceptance, environmental stewardship, climate action, sustainable development. Offshore Wind Blade Testing and Inspection Workshop Price $1,250 Duration 1-Day Dates Fall 2025 edition TBA - Enroll to stay updated Format In-Person WTTC, MA Course Status Open Enroll Offshore Wind Blade Testing and Inspection Workshop This workshop provides comprehensive training on the testing and inspection of offshore wind blades, covering essential topics such as certification processes, inspection methods, typical findings, and repair options. Led by industry experts, participants will gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience to effectively evaluate the condition of wind turbine blades and ensure their safety and performance. This course takes place from 9am to 4pm EST. Wind Technology Testing Center This workshop will be held in person at the Wind Technology Testing Center (WTTC) in Massachusetts. Registration costs do not cover travel or accommodation expenses. Course Objectives: - Understand the certification process and international standards for offshore wind blades. - Learn various inspection methods, including contact and non-contact techniques. - Identify typical findings during blade inspections, such as delamination, cracks, and manufacturing deviations. - Explore repair options for addressing blade damage and defects. - Gain practical insights into blade testing and inspection through interactive sessions and real-world case studies. What Attendees Think: “The Offshore Wind Blade Testing and Inspection Workshop was very informative. Having the ability to see the scale and size of these blades in person allows one to put the inspecting process into perspective. Knowing what’s possible when it comes to inspecting blades will give one a better understanding of the decisions made during operations and management of wind turbines.” - Baker P. Lead Engineer – Testing, GE Vernova Who Should Attend: This workshop is designed for professionals involved in the maintenance, inspection, and management of offshore wind turbines, including wind farm operators and maintenance personnel, inspectors and technicians responsible for blade inspections, engineers and project managers in the renewable energy sector, and regulatory authorities and industry stakeholders seeking to enhance their understanding of offshore wind blade testing and inspection. Any professional who is interested in a hands-on visit to a blade testing center is welcomed. Course Outline: Module 1: WTTC Overview and Tour - Roundtable Introductions and Icebreaker 20 minutes - WTTC Blade Testing Presentation 30 minutes - WTTC Tour 1 hour - Coffee/Snack Break 10 minutes Module 2: Certification Process and Blade Testing environment - IEC 61400 and IECRE - IEC 61400 chapters -1,-5, -23 - International blade testing environment Module 3a: Blade Inspection Methods - Contact - Internal Visual - External Visual - Tap Testing Lunch / Table Topics Lunch with rotating question prompts to guide and promote discussion across multiple offshore wind subjects. Module 3b: Blade Inspection Methods – Non-contact - IR - Acoustic - Ultrasonic Module 4: Typical Findings - Delamination - Paste Cracks (transverse, longitudinal) - Manufacturing deviations - Panel gaps - Paste thickness and paste gaps - Wrinkles - Shipping / Handling damage - Lightning - Bolt loosening / failure - Coffee Break Module 5: Repair Options - Factory Repairs - Up-tower repairs - Blade removal - Typical Repairs Course Completion Certificate: Upon completing at least 50% of the course and achieving a minimum passing score of 50% on a post-course assessment, participants will receive a course certificate valid for three years. This certificate verifies that the essential learning outcomes of the course have been met. While not mandatory, this certification is currently undergoing an accreditation process to further enhance its value, allowing it to be used for job applications, promotions, and professional license renewals, such as the PE (Professional Engineer) license. Course Instructor George Blagdon Engineering Director, WTTC George is the Engineering Director at the Wind Technology Testing Center and has been active in wind turbine blade testing for over 12 years. Over this time, he has led the transition to testing ultra-long blades and will play a key role in the future plans of the facility. George leads a team of test engineers and takes a hands-on approach to engineering, never passing on an opportunity to climb in a blade. He acts as an expert technical assessor within the IECRE accreditation scheme, spending time in test facilities worldwide, and participates on the maintenance team for the IEC 61400-23 specification. Passionate about early STEM education, he has played a role in hosting hundreds of high school students for tours at the facility. He holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering from UMass Dartmouth and an M.B.A from UMass Boston. Outside of work, you can find him spending time with family, working on the house, or getting lost in mountain biking trails.

< Back Navigating the Waters: Offshore Wind and Whale Protection February 19, 2025 Misinformation campaigns, often fueled by fossil fuel interests, have falsely linked offshore wind development to increased whale deaths. These campaigns exploit public concern for marine life, using emotionally charged imagery and selective data to create a misleading narrative. They frequently misrepresent the primary causes of whale mortality – ship strikes and entanglement in fishing gear – while downplaying the significant efforts undertaken by the offshore wind industry to protect marine mammals. This misinformation not only obstructs the urgently needed transition to clean energy but also diverts attention from the real threats facing whales, hindering effective conservation. Critically evaluating information sources and relying on peer-reviewed scientific research is crucial for understanding the true relationship between offshore wind and marine mammal health. As of 2024, no U.S. whale death has been linked to offshore wind operations. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) , in collaboration with offshore wind developers and environmental organizations, has developed “ Best Management Practices for North Atlantic Right Whales During Offshore Wind Energy Construction and Operations Along the U.S. East Coast. ” These guidelines, along with agreements like the one signed by Vineyard Wind, NRDC, Conservation Law Foundation, and National Wildlife Federation, provide a robust framework for balancing clean energy development with marine mammal protection. While the offshore wind industry is a crucial component of the clean energy transition, it recognizes its responsibility to minimize impacts on vulnerable species like whales. Fortunately, the industry is actively implementing a range of measures to safeguard these animals. Siting: Choosing the Right Locations Siting is the first line of defense. It involves carefully analyzing available data on whale migration routes, feeding grounds, breeding areas, and other critical habitats. Developers work with scientists and regulatory agencies to identify areas where wind farm development would pose the least risk to marine mammals. This often involves excluding designated protected areas, known aggregation sites, and important migratory corridors. While avoiding all interactions is impossible, strategic siting significantly minimizes the potential for negative impacts. Advanced modeling and predictive tools are increasingly being used to refine site selection and further reduce risks. Vessel Speed Limits: Slowing Down for Safety Vessel strikes are a major threat to whales. Implementing and strictly enforcing speed limits for all vessels associated with offshore wind projects is crucial. This includes construction vessels, transport ships, crew transfer vessels, and maintenance boats. Lower speeds (typically 10 knots or less in whale sensitive areas) give vessel operators more time to spot whales and avoid collisions. Slower speeds also reduce the severity of impacts if a collision does occur, potentially minimizing injuries or fatalities. GPS tracking and other monitoring technologies can be used to ensure compliance with speed limits. Seasonal Construction Restrictions: Timing is Everything Many whale species undertake seasonal migrations, moving between breeding grounds and feeding areas. Construction activities, especially pile driving, can generate significant underwater noise that disrupts these movements and communication. Seasonal restrictions, informed by scientific data on whale presence and migration patterns, can minimize these disruptions. For example, pile driving might be restricted during periods when whales are known to frequent a particular area. These restrictions are often site-specific and tailored to the particular species present and their behavior. Passive Acoustic Monitoring (PAM): Listening for Whales PAM systems use underwater microphones (hydrophones) to listen for whale vocalizations. These systems can detect the presence of whales even when they are not visually observed, providing a valuable early warning system. PAM can be deployed 24/7, providing continuous monitoring, unlike visual observation which is limited by daylight and weather conditions. The data collected from PAM systems can be used to inform real-time decision-making regarding construction activities, allowing work to be paused or modified if whales are detected in the vicinity. Image credit: NOAA Protected Species Observers (PSOs): Eyes on the Water Trained PSOs are stationed on construction vessels and platforms to visually scan the surrounding waters for marine mammals. They are trained to identify different species and recognize behaviors that may indicate distress or avoidance. PSOs have the authority to halt construction activities if whales or other protected species are observed within a designated safety zone. They also record sightings and other relevant data, contributing to long-term monitoring efforts. Night vision and other specialized equipment can also be used to enhance visual observation capabilities. Image credit: NOAA Bubble Curtains: A Barrier for Underwater Noise Bubble curtains are a noise mitigation technology used to reduce the impact of underwater noise generated by pile driving. They consist of a perforated pipe or ring placed around the pile driving site, which releases a stream of air bubbles. These bubbles create a barrier that absorbs and deflects sound waves, reducing the amount of noise that travels outwards. Double bubble curtains, with two concentric rings of bubbles, provide even greater noise reduction (up to nearly 95%). Image credit: Continental Other Mitigation Measures and Ongoing Research Aerial Surveys: Regular aerial surveys, conducted by trained observers, provide a broader view of whale distribution and behavior in and around project areas. These surveys can be used to validate PAM data and identify areas of high whale activity. Long-Term Research and Monitoring: Comprehensive research and monitoring programs are essential for understanding the long-term effects of offshore wind development on marine mammals. These programs involve collecting data on whale populations, behavior, habitat use, and exposure to noise and other stressors. Collaboration between developers, scientists, and environmental groups is crucial for ensuring that research efforts are well-designed and the results are shared widely. Technological Advancements: The offshore wind industry is continually exploring and developing new technologies to minimize impacts on marine mammals. This includes quieter installation methods, improved acoustic monitoring systems, and innovative deterrents. Continued research and development are essential for further reducing risks and ensuring the coexistence of offshore wind and marine life. Habitat Restoration and Enhancement: In some cases, developers may undertake habitat restoration or enhancement projects to offset potential impacts on marine mammals. This could involve restoring degraded coastal habitats or creating artificial reefs to provide alternative foraging or breeding areas. The offshore wind industry recognizes its responsibility to protect marine life. These implemented measures, coupled with continued investment in research and innovation, demonstrate a commitment to minimizing impacts and ensuring the health and safety of whales and other marine mammals. While offshore wind plays a vital role in the clean energy transition, the industry understands that addressing the primary threats to whales, alongside responsible development, is absolutely essential for the long-term survival of these magnificent creatures. Sources: NRDC , Saildrone , NOAA , Wind Exchange , Environment America , Conservation Law Foundation Previous Next

< Back Course Coordinator - Internship (Currently filled) North America Job Type Internship Workspace Remote Apply Now Please note that this role is filled and not currently hiring. If you wish to send your profile for us to keep on file in case of future openings, please send your resume and cover letter to info@aowacademy.com . About the Role As a Course Coordinator, you will be responsible for managing course content, schedules, and communication with attendees and instructors. You will assist with course logistics before and during the course and coordinate with external partners to oversee course delivery from end-to-end. With this role will have the opportunity to access over 50+ courses and learn from highest quality SMEs on each topic related to offshore wind. Qualifications - Current enrollment as a graduate student in a relevant field such as offshore wind, renewable energy, environmental studies, business management, or a related field. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft professional emails, communicate effectively in virtual meetings or presentation settings, and maintain accurate records - Strong organizational and project management skills, including the ability to track and manage numerous tasks and responsibilities simultaneously with high attention to detail. - Technological proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, and other relevant software, with a willingness to learn new tools as needed - Experience in administrative roles or with project coordination is a plus - Demonstrated interest in offshore wind, sustainability, or renewable energy. How to Apply Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience to info@aowacademy.com The American Offshore Wind Academy is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. About Us American Offshore Wind Academy is a pioneering initiative driven by senior leaders within the offshore wind industry who are committed to advancing and strengthening the sector in the United States and worldwide through comprehensive education, training, and collaboration. Apply Now

< Back Beyond the Horizon: The Future of Offshore Wind is Floating February 26, 2025 The global energy landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation, driven by the urgent need to decarbonize our economies and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Offshore wind energy has emerged as a critical component of this transition, offering a clean, abundant, and increasingly cost-competitive alternative to fossil fuels. However, the full potential of offshore wind has been constrained by the limitations of traditional fixed-bottom installations, restricting development to shallower coastal waters. Floating offshore wind turbines represent the future of offshore power, unlocking access to vast, untapped wind resources in deeper waters and ushering in a new era of clean energy generation. The Untapped Potential of the Deep Offshore wind offers significant advantages over its onshore counterpart, including higher capacity factors due to stronger and more consistent winds. Traditional fixed-bottom offshore wind turbines, however, are economically and technically limited by water depth and complex seabed conditions. These limitations significantly restrict the geographic scope of development. Floating platforms, anchored to the seabed by flexible mooring systems, overcome these constraints, enabling turbines to be deployed in deeper waters where wind resources are significantly more abundant and consistent. Crucially, around 80% of the world's exploitable offshore wind resources reside in waters deeper than 60 meters (~200 ft.), a domain currently inaccessible to fixed-bottom installations. Floating offshore wind thus represent a critical pathway to harnessing this vast, untapped energy potential. While the global floating wind industry remains in its early stages, with approximately 270 MW of operational capacity as of 2023, the future appears exceptionally promising. The global project pipeline has surged to 244 GW, demonstrating substantial industry momentum. The United States, recognizing its vast deep-water resources, currently has over 6 GW of floating projects in its development pipeline, with a significant portion under site control. Given that over two-thirds of the nation's offshore wind potential lies in deep waters, a 2022 study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) estimates the U.S. technical potential for floating offshore wind at a staggering 2,773 GW, capable of generating nearly 9,000 terawatt-hours of energy annually. Technological Innovation at the Forefront Floating offshore wind farms consist of wind turbines mounted on floating platforms, which are stabilized by sophisticated mooring and anchoring systems. Just like fixed-bottom offshore wind farms, the kinetic energy of the wind is captured by the turbine blades, converted into electricity, and transmitted via subsea cables to onshore substations for distribution. Several innovative platform designs are under development, each tailored to specific environmental conditions and project requirements: Barge Platforms: Characterized by their large surface area in contact with the water, barge platforms offer inherent stability, similar to a ship. Their relatively simple design makes them a potentially cost-effective solution for certain applications. Semi-submersible Platforms: These platforms minimize their exposure to wave action by reducing the water plane area while maximizing submerged volume for buoyancy. This design offers enhanced stability in challenging sea states. Spar Platforms: Spar platforms achieve stability through a deep-draft design, with the majority of the weight concentrated at the lowest point. This approach provides excellent stability but can present challenges in manufacturing and deployment. Tension Leg Platforms (TLPs): TLPs are anchored to the seabed using tensioned tendons, effectively minimizing platform motion. This design offers the potential for cost reduction by minimizing the size of the floating structure. The selection of the optimal platform type is a complex decision, influenced by a multitude of factors including site-specific conditions, water depth, wind resource characteristics, turbine size, cost considerations, and supply chain availability. Image credit: Iberdrola Mooring Systems Mooring systems are essential for maintaining the stability and position of floating wind turbine foundations, especially in deep water. These systems, comprising mooring lines and anchors, transfer forces from the foundation to the seabed, counteracting unwanted motions that could damage subsea power cables. They are typically composed of various steel chain sections alternating with some sections composed of synthetic fiber rope, usually polyester or nylon. Mooring configurations are tailored to site conditions, foundation type, and cable design, influencing the turbine's six degrees of motion. Taut mooring lines, often used with tension leg platforms, connect the platform to high-load vertical anchors. Catenary lines, common in spar, barge, and semi-submersible platforms, utilize freely hanging chains and drag anchors. Anchors Anchors are critical for securing floating wind platforms to the seabed, and their design is heavily influenced by seabed characteristics. While various types exist, including deadweight, driven pile, drag, suction pile, gravity drop, and vertical load anchors, drag anchors are the most common due to their strong horizontal load resistance and good seabed penetration. However, they are less suited for vertical loads. Driven piles and suction piles offer alternative solutions, with suction piles also offering recoverability. A key innovation being explored is shared anchor systems, which allow multiple platforms to connect to a single anchor. This approach, demonstrated by Equinor 's Hywind Tampen project, can reduce the total number of anchors required, improving efficiency and potentially lowering costs compared to projects like Hywind Scotland. More information on anchors and moorings: Fact sheet from offshore wind Scotland Image credit: IRENA Transmission Cables A key element for floating offshore wind cabling is the fact the cables are dynamic, meaning that they are designed to follow and withstand the motion of the floating sub-structure caused by wind, waves and current. They are developed specifically to be exposed to saltwater, to have high fatigue loads and to have tolerance to the motions of foundations and oceans. Dynamic cables usually have a non-lead insulator sheath and an additional armoring layer when compared to static cables. The Multifaceted Advantages of Floating Wind The adoption of floating offshore wind technology offers a compelling array of benefits: Access to Superior Wind Resources: Floating turbines unlock access to stronger, more consistent winds further offshore, resulting in significantly higher capacity factors compared to fixed-bottom installations. Capacity factors exceeding 60% are achievable, representing a substantial improvement over traditional fixed-bottom projects. Reduced Environmental Footprint: By locating further from shore, floating offshore wind farms minimize impacts on sensitive coastal ecosystems and marine life. Less noisy installation methods, such as the use of drag anchors and suction piles, further reduce disturbance to marine animals. Streamlined Manufacturing and Deployment: Floating platforms can be constructed and assembled onshore, simplifying logistics and reducing reliance on expensive heavy-lift vessels. Towing the completed platforms to the offshore site minimizes weather-dependent operations and facilitates easier maintenance, with some operations potentially conducted in port. Enhanced Public Opinion: The greater distance from shore reduces the visual impact and noise associated with wind farms, minimizing potential community resistance which can help facilitate smoother project development. Driving Cost Competitiveness: The floating offshore wind industry is experiencing rapid cost reductions, driven by technological advancements, economies of scale, and optimized manufacturing and installation processes. Stimulating Local Economies: Onshore assembly and manufacturing foster the development of local supply chains, creating valuable jobs and stimulating economic growth in coastal communities. The development of dedicated port infrastructure further enhances these economic benefits. Enhanced Scalability and Standardization: The potential for standardized platform designs offers significant cost advantages and accelerates deployment, enabling the rapid scaling of floating wind capacity. Navigating the Challenges While floating offshore wind holds immense promise, its widespread adoption faces a complex web of challenges that must be addressed to unlock its full potential. These challenges span technical, cost, environmental, regulatory, and infrastructural domains. Technical Challenges Deep Water Installation: Deploying massive wind turbines in the challenging environment of deep ocean waters presents significant logistical hurdles. Specialized vessels capable of handling and installing these large structures in deep water are required, driving up costs and demanding innovative installation techniques. Mooring Systems: The heart of a floating wind farm lies in its mooring system. Designing robust and reliable mooring systems that can withstand extreme weather conditions, including high winds, strong currents, and large waves, is crucial for maintaining platform stability and ensuring long-term operational integrity. Weather Dependence: Installation and maintenance operations for floating wind farms are inherently dependent on favorable weather windows. Rough seas and high winds can significantly disrupt these activities, leading to delays and increased costs. Developing strategies to mitigate weather-related risks is essential. Cable Management: Managing the intricate network of underwater cables that connect the floating turbines to the onshore grid poses a significant technical challenge. Protecting these cables from damage caused by marine life, strong currents, and other environmental factors is vital for reliable energy transmission. Transmitting electricity over longer distances can also result in greater efficiency losses, which can reduce the overall output to the grid. Cost Challenges High Capital Investment: The specialized technology required for floating wind farms, including the sophisticated floating foundations, advanced mooring systems, and subsea cables, necessitates substantial upfront capital investment. Reducing these initial costs is crucial for making floating wind competitive with other energy sources. Operation and Maintenance: The remote location of floating wind farms, often far offshore, makes operation and maintenance activities complex and expensive. Developing cost-effective strategies for accessing turbines for repairs and maintenance, particularly in harsh weather conditions, is essential for long-term economic viability. Environmental Challenges Marine Life Impacts: The construction and operation of floating wind farms have the potential to impact marine ecosystems. Noise from construction activities, electromagnetic fields from subsea cables, and the presence of turbine structures can potentially disrupt fish migration patterns, marine mammal behavior, and other aspects of the marine environment. Careful environmental assessments and mitigation measures are essential to building these projects in a responsible manner.. Regulatory Challenges Permitting Complexities: Navigating the complex and often lengthy permitting processes associated with offshore wind development can be a significant hurdle. Streamlining these processes while ensuring environmental protection is crucial for accelerating project timelines. Grid Connection: Integrating the electricity generated by floating wind farms into the existing power grid requires careful planning and coordination. Upgrading grid infrastructure and ensuring grid stability are essential for accommodating large-scale floating wind deployment. Infrastructure Challenges Port Limitations: The construction and assembly of large floating wind turbines require specialized port facilities with sufficient capacity, heavy-lift capabilities, and deep-water access. Many existing ports lack these capabilities, requiring significant investment in port infrastructure development. Vessel Availability: The installation and maintenance of floating wind farms require specialized vessels capable of operating in deep water and harsh weather conditions. The limited availability of these vessels can create bottlenecks and increase costs. Addressing these multifaceted challenges requires a concerted effort from industry, government, and research institutions. Continued innovation in technology, streamlined regulatory processes, strategic infrastructure investments, and a commitment to environmental stewardship are crucial for realizing the full potential of floating offshore wind and powering a sustainable future. Operational Developments Several floating offshore wind projects have demonstrated the viability and potential of this technology. Hywind Scotland, the world's first floating wind farm (30MW), has consistently achieved the highest average capacity factor of all UK offshore wind farms for three years running (reaching 57.1% in 2020), proving the potential of floating wind. Equinor, the developer, has achieved significant cost reductions (60-70%) between its demonstrator project and Hywind Scotland and anticipates further reductions (40%) with its larger 88 MW Hywind Tampen project. Hywind Tampen, the world's largest floating wind farm, powers offshore oil and gas platforms and serves as a testbed for future floating wind technologies. These projects showcase the technical feasibility, increasing cost-competitiveness, and real-world performance of floating offshore wind, paving the way for larger-scale deployments. Check out this video by Equinor about Hywind Scotland, the worlds first floating offshore wind project. Other Pilot Projects -The 25-MW WindFloat Atlantic project: The first floating wind farm in continental Europe, features three 8.4 MW turbines utilizing semi-submersible platforms. It has been operational since 2019, supplying clean energy to the 25,000 Portuguese households every year -The 25-MW Provence Grand Large pilot project: Three 8.4-MW Siemens Gamesa turbines on tension-leg floating platforms near Marseille, France. It is expected to produce the equivalent of the annual electricity consumption of 45,000 inhabitants. -The 3.6-MW Guoneng Sharing pilot project: A single turbine on a semisubmersible platform near Longyuan Nanri Island in China. -The 2-MW DemoSATH demonstration project in Spain: A single 2-MW turbine, designed to test the "SATH" (Saitec Offshore Technologies Hull) floating platform technology in real-world conditions off the Basque coast. While most other projects are still in the planning phase, it is estimated that around 14 GW of floating offshore wind capacity will be installed globally by 2029. Still, there is a high degree of uncertainty about their timing and likelihood of completion. Most of the developer announced deployment through 2029 is in the United Kingdom (4,242 MW), Italy (4,160 MW), Taiwan (1,530 MW), China (1,052 MW), and Spain (995 MW). The First Two-Turbine Floating Platform Mingyang Smart Energy has launched OceanX, a groundbreaking floating offshore wind platform featuring two 8.3MW turbines for a combined capacity of 16.6MW, making it the world's largest single-capacity floating wind turbine platform. Designed to withstand Category 5 hurricane conditions and continue generating power in winds up to 161 mph and waves as high as 98 feet, OceanX is expected to produce enough electricity to power approximately 30,000 Chinese households annually. A 1:10 scale prototype was successfully tested in 2020, and the full-scale platform has now been deployed to the Qingzhou IV offshore wind farm in Yangjiang, Guangdong, China. This innovative dual-turbine design, built with ultra-high-performance concrete and featuring 219-meter towers, represents a significant advancement in floating offshore wind technology. Image credit: Renew Economy Charting the Course for a Sustainable Future Floating offshore wind is not merely a promising technology; it is a transformative force poised to reshape the global energy landscape. By unlocking access to previously inaccessible wind resources, floating offshore wind farms have the potential to become a cornerstone of the clean energy transition. While challenges remain, the industry is rapidly maturing, propelled by innovation, investment, and a growing recognition of the immense potential of this technology. With continued focus on supply chain development, port infrastructure, and O&M strategies, floating offshore wind is poised to play a leading role in powering a sustainable future. Innovation in floating offshore wind technology is the key to unlocking the vast, untapped energy potential of deeper waters, paving the way for a cleaner and more secure future. Sources Equinor , NREL , OSW Biz , Iberdrola , Semar , Science Direct , Acteon , IRENA Previous Next

Offshore Wind Transmission Course Offshore wind transmission, a critical component of harnessing clean energy, involves complex systems and technologies. Key terms include: offshore wind farms, wind turbines, subsea cables, export cables, inter-array cables, high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission, alternating current (AC) transmission, grid connection, onshore substations, offshore substations, converter stations, reactive compensation, power flow control, voltage stability, frequency stability, grid integration, transmission planning, capacity factor, curtailment, energy storage, battery storage, pumped hydro storage, power purchase agreements (PPAs), renewable energy certificates (RECs), levelized cost of energy (LCOE), project finance, risk assessment, environmental impact assessment, marine spatial planning, stakeholder engagement, permitting, regulatory approvals, Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA), benthic habitats, marine ecosystems, avian impacts, visual impacts, electromagnetic fields (EMF), cable burial, cable protection, rock dumping, concrete mattresses, trenching, jetting, horizontal directional drilling (HDD), installation vessels, cable laying vessels, maintenance vessels, operation and maintenance (O&M), remote monitoring, fault detection, repair, asset management, cybersecurity, data acquisition, SCADA systems, communication networks, fiber optic cables, metocean data, wind resource assessment, wave data, current data, soil conditions, geotechnical surveys, bathymetry, seabed mapping, UXO (unexploded ordnance), safety, health, environment (HSE), supply chain, manufacturing, logistics, port infrastructure, workforce development, local communities, economic benefits, job creation, supply chain localization, innovation, research and development, smart grid technologies, microgrids, offshore platforms, floating offshore wind, deepwater wind, hybrid power plants, green hydrogen, power-to-x, energy transition, decarbonization, climate change mitigation, renewable energy targets, sustainable development, circular economy, life cycle assessment, cost optimization, reliability, resilience, grid modernization, interconnection agreements, transmission access, capacity markets, ancillary services, grid codes, standards, best practices, technology advancements, digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, digital twins, predictive maintenance, automation, remote operations, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), ROVs (remotely operated vehicles), subsea inspection, cable repair, offshore construction, marine engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, project management, consulting, legal, financial advisory, insurance, risk management, due diligence, feasibility studies, conceptual design, front-end engineering design (FEED), detailed design, construction management, commissioning, testing, operation, decommissioning, repowering, life extension, offshore wind transmission infrastructure, offshore wind transmission systems, offshore wind transmission lines, offshore wind transmission cables, offshore wind transmission substations, offshore wind transmission grid, offshore wind transmission planning, offshore wind transmission development, offshore wind transmission operation, offshore wind transmission maintenance, offshore wind transmission costs, offshore wind transmission benefits, offshore wind transmission challenges, offshore wind transmission opportunities, offshore wind transmission future. Offshore Wind Transmission Course Price 2.950€ (Early bird 2.360€ until September 1) Duration 2.5-Day Dates October 14-16, 2025 Format In-Person Course Status Open Enroll Offshore Wind Transmission Course Explore the intricate world of offshore wind transmission in this comprehensive two-a-half day workshop with the opportunity to enter GE Vernova's Stafford, UK transmission facility. Gain a deep understanding of the electrical systems that connect offshore wind farms to onshore grids, including both High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) and High Voltage Alternating Current (HVAC) solutions, and explore transmission automation and simulation facilities - normally reserved only for customers of GE Vernova. This course will take place from 8.30h until 17h GMT the first two days and 8.30h until 12h GMT the final day. The price of this course includes the course attendance, refreshments, lunch on days 1 & 2, and a happy hour. The price does not include other related travel & accommodation costs. A list of hotels can be provided upon request. Course Learning Objectives: Explain the role and challenges of offshore wind transmission systems, including environmental, technical, and regulatory considerations Describe the fundamental components and functions of HVAC and HVDC technology, onshore and offshore substations, and key high-voltage equipment Compare AC and HVDC transmission solutions in offshore wind, including pros and cons, converter technologies, and typical system configurations Analyze power flow, voltage levels, load balancing, and grid code compliance strategies for integrating offshore wind with onshore grids Identify the types, functions, and maintenance considerations of export and array cables, and evaluate their importance in system reliability Assess emerging technologies (e.g., floating substations, DC breakers, DC/DC converters), and discuss their impact on future offshore wind transmission systems What Attendees Think: “It was an invaluable experience. The course provided a comprehensive overview of the technical, regulatory, and financial aspects of offshore wind power transmission. The interactive format encouraged active participation and allowed for a deeper understanding of the material. What stood out to me in the course was the depth of knowledge the instructors brought to the table. They shared real-world insights and case studies that highlighted challenges and solutions in the field.” - Jude T. ABS, Managing Principal Electrical Engineer Who Should Attend: This course is ideal for professionals working in the offshore wind industry with high engineering competencies including engineers and technicians, regulatory and compliance specialist, grid operators and utility professionals, academics and researchers, and consultants and advisors. Renewable energy developers, energy analysts and economists, and engineering project members will also benefit. Course Outline Day 1 Module 1: Introduction to Offshore Wind Transmission - Role of Transmission in Offshore Wind Projects - Key Challenges and Considerations in Offshore Wind Transmission - Regulatory and Environmental Aspects Module 2: Onshore Substation Design - HVAC Technology - Fundamentals of Onshore and Offshore Substations - Equipment and Components - Interconnection with the Grid - Control and Protection Systems (Automation) - Project System Studies - Case Studies and Best Practices FACILITY TOUR 1 - HVDC Valve facility - Grid Automation facility Day 2 Module 3: Offshore Substation Design - HVDC Technology - Fundamentals of HVDC Technology - Equipment and Components - Considerations for Onshore Substations, Interconnection with the onshore Grid - Considerations for and Offshore Substation Platform and Offshore windfarm - Control and Protection Systems - Project System Studies - Case Studies and Best Practices Module 4: Transmission - Power Flow within an Offshore Wind Farm - Voltage Levels and Load Balancing - Grid Connection Strategies - Integration with Onshore Grids - Grid Codes and Compliance FACILITY TOUR 2 - HVDC RTDS Simulation facility - Grid Automation Simulation facility Day 3 Module 5: Export and Array Cable - Types of Export and Array Cables - Cable Selection Criteria - Cable Monitoring, Protection and Maintenance Module 6: Trending Technology - Case Studies on Technological Innovations - DC Grids, Floating Substations, DC Breakers, DC/DC Converters Course Instructors Neil Kirby Business Development Manager, HVDC GE Grid Solutions Neil Kirby graduated from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, England in 1983, starting work with GEC in Stafford, England, which evolved over the years through GEC Alsthom to Alstom, to Areva, to Alstom and most recently to GE. He has held many roles in Control System Hardware and Software design, Site Commissioning and Project Engineering in HVDC systems worldwide. Neil is currently HVDC Business Development Manager, living in Port St Lucie, Florida. Neil is a Senior Member of IEEE, Cigre B4 Regular Member for the US National Committee, and is active on several IEEE and Cigre working groups. Hongbiao Song Global Technical Tender Leader for Offshore Wind GE Grid Solutions Hongbiao Song graduated from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, USA with Ph. D degree in Electrical Engineering in Dec 2006. He worked in Bechtel between Oct 2006 and Jan 2014 as Senior Electrical Engineer involving in many large international and US Oil & Gas (O&G) projects such as LNG, refineries, petrochemical, gasification, pipelines, etc. He worked in GE since Jan 2014 with multiple technical and commercial roles involving large international and US projects such as power generation, utilities, O&G, O&G electrification, offshore wind. He had extensive system domain and equipment domain knowledge so he can lead and coordinate with GE internal teams and external partners from different regions and different organizations to win and execute large projects. He led multiple innovative R&D programs in GE such as Trailer Mounted HV Substation, Containerized HV Substation, Fast Power HV Substation Standardization, Floating Offshore Substation. Hongbiao is currently Global Technical Tender Leader for Offshore Wind in GE Grid Solutions, living in Houston, Texas. Hongbiao is a Senior Member of IEEE, Cigre B4 Member for the US National Committee, and is active on Cigre B4.98 working group. About the GE Vernova Stafford Facility From Stafford, GE Vernova exports to customers in over 100 countries. The GE Grid Solutions business specializes in grid technologies that support the energy transition in meeting the growing demand for power, upgrading and digitizing ageing infrastructure and integrating renewables as part of a diversified energy mix. The site is renowned for its expertise in HVDC and large complex power transformers, plus as a key hub for upskilling and training on offshore wind and HV products. GE Vernova’s Grid Automation activity integrates cutting-edge software, hardware, and communication technologies to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and resilience of electrical grid infrastructure. There is a strong history of manufacturing and pioneering R&D in Stafford, all the way back to 1903 when the very first factory was inaugurated. The course outline is subject to change and a detailed agenda will be shared after enrollment. Course Completion & Certificate: In order to complete this certificate program, attendees will require a valid email address and physical presence in Stafford, UK. Upon attending at least 50% of the course and achieving a minimum passing score (shared during the course) on a post-course assessment, participants will receive a course certificate valid for three years. This certificate verifies that the essential learning outcomes of the course have been met and thus that the certificate holder is well-versed in the subject matter. This certificate program is currently undergoing an accreditation process to further enhance its value, allowing it to be used for job applications, promotions, and professional license renewals, such as the PE (Professional Engineer) license. Cancellation policy: You are eligible for a full refund if you request cancellation within 24 hours of course enrollment. Payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date. Cancellations or deferrals made after the initial 24-hour period but up to two months before the scheduled course date will be eligible for a 50% refund. Due to program demand and the volume of preprogram preparation, no refunds will be issued if cancellation occurs less than two months from the course start date. Confidentiality of Information: Information collected by the certificate issuer during the training and certification process is treated as strictly confidential. This information will only be disclosed to third parties under the following conditions: With the explicit consent of the individual providing the information When required by law, regulation, or accrediting body When necessary to verify the authenticity of a certificate or qualification, and only to relevant parties (e.g., employers or regulatory bodies), and in accordance with applicable privacy laws All data is handled in accordance with our privacy policy and relevant data protection regulations.

< Back AOWA Supports Reuters Event: Offshore Wind USA 2024 Conference 6/12/24 American Offshore Wind Academy is a proud supporting partner for Reuters Events Renewables: Offshore Wind USA 2024 conference. US offshore wind developers face a tangled supply chain challenge, requiring meticulous planning to secure the right mix of vessels, ensure port capacity, and build a pipeline of qualified tradespeople. Neglecting any one of these pain points can jeopardize your projects and significantly impact your budgets. This event is designed to tackle the practical realities of project delivery head on. We look forward to meeting other leaders in the US offshore wind sector as we pave the way for timely and financially feasible projects at North America’s premier business-focused offshore wind gathering, renowned for convening top policymakers, regulators, and developers. Previous Next

Registration form for the training course: Offshore Wind Operation and Maintenance First Name Last Name Email Address Phone Number Company / Organization Name Job Title or Position Country State, Region, or Province Address Confirm the course name Offshore Wind Operation and Maintenance Are you applying as: * Individual Group Select the course date * Spring Session Fall Session By clicking submit you agree to our Terms and Conditions Submit Your application has been submitted. We will reach out to you to complete the payment

Mandar Pandit, Chief Strategy & Growth Officer, GE Vernova, Grid Solutions, North America, data center, renewable energy, strategic growth, global accounts, key accounts, GE Power, commercial leadership program, sales, business development, renewable energy, grid business, energy project developers, investors, EPC companies, industry network, global development, strategic initiatives, GDSI, wind energy, solar energy, IGCC deals, Terex-Vectra group, new product development, MBA, international business, State University of New York, upstate NY, meditation, nature photography, chief strategy officer, growth officer, GE, Vernova, grid solutions business, data centers, renewables, strategic planning, business growth, account management, global business, commercial leadership, sales management, business development strategy, energy industry, project development, investment, engineering, procurement, construction, industry connections, deal origination, wind power, solar power, integrated gasification combined cycle, product development, international business management, higher education, New York, personal interests, executive, leadership, strategy, growth, grid infrastructure, energy transition, sustainability, clean energy, renewable integration, grid modernization, digital grid, smart grid, transmission, distribution, microgrids, energy storage, power systems, electrical engineering, project finance, due diligence, contract negotiation, risk management, stakeholder management, cross-functional leadership, global markets, international trade, business strategy, competitive analysis, market analysis, financial analysis, innovation, technology, digitalization, automation, electrification, energy efficiency, decarbonization, climate change, sustainability goals, corporate strategy, business development manager, sales director, commercial director, program manager, project manager, business analyst, market research, competitive intelligence, strategic partnerships, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, due diligence, investment banking, private equity, venture capital, energy policy, regulatory affairs, government relations, public affairs, industry associations, conferences, webinars, networking, professional development, career development, executive leadership, business acumen, strategic thinking, problem solving, decision making, communication skills, interpersonal skills, teamwork, collaboration, leadership skills, management skills, negotiation skills, presentation skills, analytical skills, financial skills, technical skills, industry expertise, domain expertise, global experience, international experience, cross-cultural experience, multicultural experience, diversity and inclusion, work-life balance, personal growth, mindfulness, photography, nature, family, upstate New York, GE Grid Solutions, GE Renewable Energy, energy sector, power generation, power transmission, power distribution, energy infrastructure, grid reliability, grid resilience, energy security, energy access, energy affordability, clean technology, green technology, sustainable development, corporate social responsibility, ESG, environmental, social, governance, renewable portfolio standards, RPS, carbon reduction, emissions reduction, climate action, energy future, energy transformation, innovation in energy, technology in energy, digitalization in energy, automation in energy, electrification of everything, energy transition, just transition, energy equity, energy justice, community engagement, stakeholder engagement, public-private partnerships, energy partnerships, global energy, international energy, energy markets, energy trading, energy finance, energy investment, project finance in energy, renewable energy finance, grid modernization finance, digital grid finance, smart grid finance, energy storage finance, power systems engineering, electrical power engineering, power systems analysis, grid stability, grid control, grid automation, smart grid technology, advanced metering infrastructure, AMI, demand response, distributed generation, renewable energy integration, energy storage integration, microgrid integration, cybersecurity, data analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, internet of things, IoT, cloud computing, edge computing, digital twin, simulation, modeling, optimization, planning, design, engineering, procurement, construction, operation, maintenance, asset management, risk management in energy, safety in energy, environmental management in energy, social impact assessment, stakeholder engagement in energy, community engagement in energy, public affairs in energy, government relations in energy, regulatory affairs in energy, energy policy in energy, renewable energy policy, grid modernization policy, energy storage policy, climate change policy, sustainability policy, energy efficiency policy, decarbonization policy, just transition policy, energy equity policy, energy justice policy, global energy policy, international energy policy, energy markets regulation, energy trading regulation, energy finance regulation, energy investment regulation, renewable energy finance regulation, grid modernization finance regulation, digital grid finance regulation, smart grid finance regulation, energy storage finance regulation, power systems engineering standards, electrical power engineering standards, grid stability standards, grid control standards, grid automation standards, smart grid technology standards, advanced metering infrastructure standards, demand response standards, distributed generation standards, renewable energy integration standards, energy storage integration standards, microgrid integration standards, cybersecurity standards, data analytics standards, artificial intelligence standards, machine learning standards, internet of things standards, cloud computing standards, edge computing standards, digital twin standards, simulation standards, modeling standards, optimization standards, planning standards, design standards, engineering standards, procurement standards, construction standards, operation standards, maintenance standards, asset management standards, risk management standards, safety standards, environmental management standards, social impact assessment standards, stakeholder engagement standards, community engagement standards, public affairs standards, government relations standards, regulatory affairs standards, energy policy standards, renewable energy policy standards, grid modernization policy standards, energy storage policy standards, climate change policy standards, sustainability policy standards, energy efficiency policy standards, decarbonization policy standards, just transition policy standards, energy equity policy standards, energy justice policy standards, global energy policy standards, international energy policy standards, energy markets regulation standards, energy trading regulation standards, energy finance regulation standards, energy investment regulation standards, renewable energy finance regulation standards, grid modernization finance regulation standards, digital grid finance regulation standards, smart grid finance regulation standards, energy storage finance regulation standards. < Back Mandar Pandit Chief Strategy & Growth Officer, GE Grid Solutions Mandar Pandit is the Chief Strategy & Growth Officer at GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business in North America. In his position, Mandar is responsible for strategic growth in both the Data Center and Renewable segments. He is also responsible for GE Vernova’s key global accounts headquartered in North America. Mandar joined GE in 2005 in the GE Power business and was then selected for GE’s Corporate Commercial Leadership Program. He has held a variety of roles in Commercial, Sales, and Business Development in GE’s Renewable and Grid businesses. During his tenure, he has worked closely with multiple energy project developers, investors, and EPC companies, establishing a vast industry network worldwide. Prior to his GE Grid roles, Mandar was part of GE’s Global Development & Strategic Initiatives (GDSI) group where he was responsible for originating Wind, Solar, and IGCC deals. Prior to GE, Mandar worked for Terex-Vectra group in New Product Development. Mandar holds a Master of Business Administration degree in International Business from the State University of New York and resides in Upstate NY with his wife and two children. In his free time, Mandar is an avid meditation practitioner and hobby nature photographer.

Registration form for the training course: Deep Dive Into Offshore Wind Foundations First Name Last Name Email Address Phone Number Company / Organization Name Job Title or Position Country State, Region, or Province Address Confirm the course name Deep Dive Into Offshore Wind Foundations Are you applying as: * Individual Group Select the course date * Spring Session Fall Session By clicking submit you agree to our Terms and Conditions Submit Your application has been submitted. We will reach out to you to complete the payment

Lydia Lostan, offshore wind, EDF Renewables North America, director, new market development, energy industry, offshore industry, international experience, 15 years experience, robotics, microsystems, EPFL, Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne, Switzerland, BSc, MSc, renewable energy, wind energy, offshore wind power, wind farm development, market analysis, business development, project management, leadership, innovation, sustainability, clean energy, green energy, energy transition, decarbonization, renewable resources, power generation, engineering, technology, automation, robotics engineering, microsystems engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, software engineering, systems engineering, control systems, sensors, actuators, microelectronics, nanotechnology, renewable energy technologies, wind turbine technology, offshore wind farm design, construction, operation, maintenance, risk management, stakeholder engagement, regulatory affairs, policy analysis, market research, competitive analysis, strategic planning, financial modeling, due diligence, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, partnerships, project finance, investment analysis, energy economics, energy policy, environmental impact assessment, social impact assessment, community engagement, supply chain management, logistics, procurement, contract negotiation, project execution, performance optimization, cost reduction, revenue generation, profitability, growth strategy, business strategy, corporate strategy, innovation strategy, technology strategy, sustainability strategy, leadership development, team building, talent management, organizational development, change management, communication skills, presentation skills, negotiation skills, problem-solving skills, decision-making skills, critical thinking skills, analytical skills, technical skills, engineering skills, management skills, business acumen, industry knowledge, market knowledge, regulatory knowledge, policy knowledge, technical expertise, engineering expertise, leadership experience, management experience, international experience, cross-cultural experience, global perspective, energy sector, power sector, infrastructure development, climate change, carbon emissions, renewable portfolio standards, energy storage, grid integration, smart grid, digitalization, automation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, predictive maintenance, remote sensing, geographic information systems, metocean data, wind resource assessment, site selection, feasibility studies, environmental permitting, marine biology, oceanography, coastal engineering, geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, turbine installation, cable installation, offshore platform, floating offshore wind, wind turbine components, gearbox, generator, blades, tower, nacelle, rotor, yaw system, pitch system, control system, safety systems, monitoring systems, SCADA, remote operations, digital twin, asset management, lifecycle management, decommissioning, repowering, research and development, innovation ecosystem, technology transfer, knowledge sharing, industry collaboration, academic partnerships, government relations, public affairs, media relations, investor relations, financial institutions, private equity, venture capital, project developers, utilities, contractors, suppliers, consultants, advisors, industry associations, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, conferences, workshops, seminars, publications, reports, white papers, case studies, best practices, lessons learned, future trends, emerging technologies, market outlook, policy landscape, regulatory framework, investment climate, business environment, competitive landscape, growth opportunities, challenges, risks, sustainability goals, environmental stewardship, social responsibility, corporate governance, ethics, compliance, compliance, compliance, compliance, compliance, future of energy, energy security, energy access, energy affordability, sustainable development goals, global energy transition, North America, United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, offshore wind farms in the US, offshore wind farms in Europe, global offshore wind market, offshore wind industry trends, offshore wind jobs, offshore wind careers, women in energy, women in STEM, diversity and inclusion, leadership roles, executive leadership, board of directors. < Back Lydia Lostan Offshore Wind Director, EDF Renewables North America Lydia Lostan is currently Director of Offshore Wind for EDF Renewables North America, leading new market developments. She has more than 15 years’ experience in the energy and offshore industries internationally. Lydia holds a BSc and MSc in Robotics and Microsystems from EPFL (Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne) in Switzerland.

Registration form for the training course: Renewable Energy Grid Interconnection First Name Last Name Email Address Phone Number Company / Organization Name Job Title or Position Country State, Region, or Province Address Confirm the course name Renewable Energy Grid Interconnection Are you applying as: * Individual Group Select the course date * Spring Session Fall Session By clicking submit you agree to our Terms and Conditions Submit Your application has been submitted. We will reach out to you to complete the payment

< Back AOWA Launches New Podcast Series: Ask The Expert 11/01/24 In AOWA's "Ask the Expert" series, we sit down with a top offshore wind expert for a quick "coffee chat" on various offshore wind topics. You can join us directly on LinkedIn. In our first episode, Jim Bennett, Former Program Manager at BOEM, speaks to us about how administrations impact offshore wind in the United States. In our next episode, Jeremy Merz, Managing Director & Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), speaks with us about "Offshore Wind in the Trump Era," exploring the scenarios and potential impacts on offshore wind development following the recent election. In our latest episode of AOWA Podcast: Ask the Expert, we engage in a compelling discussion with Jim Bennett, former Chief of the Office of Renewable Energy at BOEM. The recent elections have ushered in a wave of policy shifts, significantly impacting the offshore wind industry. We explore the immediate effects of new policies on offshore wind projects and discuss future projections for offshore wind development in light of the evolving political landscape. Previous Next

Registration form for the training course: Floating Offshore Wind Masterclass First Name Last Name Email Address Phone Number Company / Organization Name Job Title or Position Country State, Region, or Province Address Confirm the course name Floating Offshore Wind Masterclass Are you applying as: * Individual Group Select the course date * Spring Session Fall Session By clicking submit you agree to our Terms and Conditions Submit Your application has been submitted. We will reach out to you to complete the payment

Registration form for the training course: Offshore Wind Ports and Vessels Course First Name Last Name Email Address Phone Number Company / Organization Name Job Title or Position Country State, Region, or Province Address Confirm the course name Offshore Wind Ports and Vessels Course Are you applying as: * Individual Group Select the course date * Spring Session Fall Session By clicking submit you agree to our Terms and Conditions Submit Your application has been submitted. We will reach out to you to complete the payment

Financing Offshore Wind From Auction To FID Offshore wind financing and auctions are complex processes involving numerous stakeholders and stages, culminating in the final investment decision (FID). Key terms encompass project finance, renewable energy investment, wind farm development, offshore wind farms, wind energy projects, renewable energy finance, clean energy investment, green finance, sustainable finance, ESG investing, environmental, social, and governance, impact investing, project sponsors, developers, utilities, independent power producers (IPPs), power purchase agreements (PPAs), contracts for difference (CfDs), revenue contracts, offtake agreements, transmission agreements, interconnection agreements, grid connection, offshore wind turbines, wind turbine manufacturers, turbine supply agreements, balance of plant, foundations, substructures, cables, offshore installation vessels, heavy lift vessels, construction contracts, engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contracts, operation and maintenance (O&M) contracts, asset management, due diligence, technical due diligence, commercial due diligence, financial due diligence, legal due diligence, risk assessment, feasibility studies, environmental impact assessments (EIAs), permitting, consenting, regulatory approvals, government support, subsidies, tax credits, feed-in tariffs, renewable energy certificates (RECs), carbon credits, auctions, competitive bidding, lease auctions, seabed rights, maritime law, offshore regulations, safety regulations, marine spatial planning, stakeholder engagement, community benefits agreements, supply chain, local content, job creation, economic development, port infrastructure, grid infrastructure, transmission infrastructure, energy storage, battery storage, green hydrogen, power-to-x, levelized cost of energy (LCOE), capital expenditure (CAPEX), operating expenditure (OPEX), discount rate, internal rate of return (IRR), net present value (NPV), debt financing, equity financing, mezzanine financing, project finance loans, commercial banks, investment banks, export credit agencies (ECAs), multilateral development banks (MDBs), institutional investors, pension funds, insurance companies, private equity funds, infrastructure funds, yieldcos, tax equity, financial modeling, cash flow projections, sensitivity analysis, risk mitigation, insurance, political risk insurance, construction risk insurance, operational risk insurance, force majeure, liquidated damages, performance guarantees, warranties, credit ratings, investment grade, non-recourse financing, limited recourse financing, security agreements, collateral, financial close, FID, construction phase, operational phase, decommissioning, repowering, lifecycle costs, energy yield assessments, wind resource assessment, metocean data, site investigation, geotechnical surveys, bathymetric surveys, environmental surveys, archaeological surveys, avian surveys, marine mammal surveys, fishing industry, navigation, shipping lanes, radar interference, visual impact, noise pollution, electromagnetic fields, shadow flicker, public consultation, community engagement, local communities, indigenous communities, environmental organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), best practices, industry standards, health and safety, supply chain resilience, inflation, interest rates, currency exchange rates, political stability, regulatory changes, technology advancements, innovation, digitalization, offshore wind innovation, floating offshore wind, deepwater wind, hybrid projects, offshore wind integration, smart grid, grid modernization, energy transition, climate change mitigation, decarbonization, renewable energy targets, sustainable development goals (SDGs), energy security, energy independence, just transition, offshore wind workforce, skills development, training programs, research and development, knowledge sharing, collaboration, partnerships, industry associations, government agencies, international organizations, offshore wind conferences, offshore wind events, offshore wind market, global offshore wind, offshore wind pipeline, offshore wind capacity, offshore wind growth, offshore wind future. Financing Offshore Wind From Auction To FID Price $2,450 Duration 2-Day Dates Fall 2025 edition TBA - Enroll to stay updated Format Virtual (Live) Course Status Open Enroll Financing Offshore Wind From Auction To FID This comprehensive course is designed to provide a deep understanding of the commercial aspects involved in offshore wind projects, from the bidding stage to Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), including bidding and contracting strategies, project financing and investment structures, risk management and regulatory considerations, PPAs and market dynamics. Participants will gain essential knowledge and skills to navigate the intricate world of offshore wind financing, enabling them to make informed decisions and contribute effectively to the development and management of these projects. This course will take place from 9am until 1pm EST each day. Course Objectives: - Equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of offshore wind financing from bid to PPA. - Develop the skills necessary to analyze risks and make informed investment decisions. - Provide insights into successful strategies and case studies in offshore wind projects. - Foster networking and collaboration among professionals in the renewable energy sector. Who Should Attend: - Investors and financiers: Professionals in the financial and investment sectors seeking to invest in or finance offshore wind projects will learn how to assess risks and opportunities - Government officials and policymakers: Individuals in regulatory or policymaking roles will benefit from understanding the financial and commercial dynamics of offshore wind energy. - Legal and financial experts involved in the offshore wind industry will gain a deeper understanding of the financial structures and legal considerations. - Energy industry professionals: Those working in the energy sector who want to expand their knowledge of renewable energy, specifically offshore wind financing. - Project developers and managers: Individuals responsible for planning, developing, and overseeing offshore wind projects will gain valuable insights into the financial aspects of their initiatives. - Professionals interested in learning more about the financing of offshore wind farms Course Outline: Day 1 Module 1: Introduction to Offshore Wind and Its Commercial Landscape - Understanding Offshore Wind: Economics and Politics of Offshore Wind - Role of Governments and Regulatory Frameworks - Offshore Wind Industry Players and Stakeholders Module 2: Overview of Project Finance, SPVs, Key Agreements - Difference in corporate finance vs. project finance - Key stakeholders in a project finance transaction & responsibilities - Overview of key contracts (PPA, EPC Agreement, GIA…etc) - Key Legal and Commercial Clauses in Offshore Wind Contracts Module 3: Project Financing and Investment Structures - Project Valuation and Investment Decision-Making - Financing Structures: Debt vs. Equity - Attracting Investors and Securing Financing - Financial Models and Risk Analysis - US Tax Equity Specificities Day 2 Module 4: Debt Financing Deep Dive Module 5: Tax Equity Financing Deep Dive Module 6: Risk Management and Regulatory Considerations - Risk Identification and Mitigation Strategies - Environmental and Permitting Challenges - Grid Connection and Transmission Issues - Legal and Regulatory Compliance Course Instructors: Ryan O’Connor Senior Financial Advisor, Ocean Winds Ryan O’Connor is a Senior Financial Advisor for the offshore wind developer Ocean Winds working within the SouthCoast Wind Project. Ryan has led finance efforts in both BOEM Auctions and Power Purchase Agreements. This experience has culminated in a PPA win, lease auction awards in the Ocean Wind portfolio, and heavy involvement in the pending tri-state PPA solicitation in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. Ryan has been instrumental in formulating valuation metrics, robust financing plans and funding strategies tailored to the unique demands of offshore wind projects, particularly as macroeconomic shocks continue to acutely impact the industry. This includes navigating the complex landscape of tax equity financing, where he has developed innovative strategies to optimize financial structures amidst the constant flux of regulatory changes, particularly those surrounding the details of the Inflation Reduction Act and its possible futures. Prior to joining the offshore wind industry, Ryan worked in both underwriting and deal structuring in the commercial real estate industry, with a focus on commercial construction. He holds a Bachelors in Economics & Finance and a Masters in Finance, both from Bentley University. Ian McGinnis Project Finance Manager, Ocean Winds Ian McGinnis is a Project Finance Manager at Ocean Winds North America where he provides oversight on project financing activities across the full lifecycle of OW’s North American portfolio. Prior to Ocean Winds, Ian was an Associate on the Project Finance team at Greenskies Clean Energy where he evaluated commercial solar + storage renewable energy projects. While at Greenskies, Ian was part of a team which closed several debt and tax equity financings for solar projects across the U.S. Ian began his career at FTI Consulting on the Power, Renewables, and Utilities team. His consulting experience spanned a range of matters such as regulatory due diligence, utility financial modeling, natural gas and electric rate case advisory, and wholesale market analysis. The course outline is subject to change and a detailed agenda will be shared after enrollment. Course Completion & Certificate: In order to complete this certificate program, attendees will require a device with an internet connection and a valid email address. Upon attending at least 50% of the course and achieving a minimum passing score (shared during the course) on a post-course assessment, participants will receive a course certificate valid for three years. This certificate verifies that the essential learning outcomes of the course have been met and thus that the certificate holder is well-versed in the subject matter. This certificate program is currently undergoing an accreditation process to further enhance its value, allowing it to be used for job applications, promotions, and professional license renewals, such as the PE (Professional Engineer) license. Cancellation policy: You are eligible for a full refund if you request cancellation within 24 hours of course enrollment. Payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date. Cancellations or deferrals made after the initial 24-hour period but up to two months before the scheduled course date will be eligible for a 50% refund. Due to program demand and the volume of preprogram preparation, no refunds will be issued if cancellation occurs less than two months from the course start date. Confidentiality of Information: Information collected by the certificate issuer during the training and certification process is treated as strictly confidential. This information will only be disclosed to third parties under the following conditions: With the explicit consent of the individual providing the information When required by law, regulation, or accrediting body When necessary to verify the authenticity of a certificate or qualification, and only to relevant parties (e.g., employers or regulatory bodies), and in accordance with applicable privacy laws All data is handled in accordance with our privacy policy and relevant data protection regulations.

Learn more about AOWA’s mission to train and empower professionals in the offshore wind industry through expert-led programs American Offshore Wind Academy The American Offshore Wind Academy (AOWA) is a pioneering initiative driven by offshore wind industry leaders who are committed to advancing and strengthening the sector. The Academy’s mission is to empower and advance the offshore wind industry in the United States and worldwide through comprehensive education, training, and collaboration. With a commitment to excellence, innovation, and industry growth, the Academy strives to empower individuals, organizations, governments, and the broader offshore wind community to make a significant and lasting impact on the clean energy landscape of the world. Board of Advisors Eric Thumma Head of U.S., Corio Generation Jim Bennett Former Chief of The Office of Renewable Energy Programs, BOEM Amy McGinty Vice President, Vestas North America Alla Weinstein Founder & CEO, Trident Winds Inc Mike Starrett Chief Commercial Officer, Ocean Winds North America Adrienne Downey Principal Engineer and Country Manager, Hexicon North American Mandar Pandit Chief Strategy & Growth Officer, GE Grid Solutions Jay Borkland Supply Chain and Port Director, Avangrid Serene Hamsho President, American Offshore Wind Academy Theodore Paradise Energy Partner, K&L Gates Lydia Lostan Offshore Wind Director, EDF Renewables North America STAY IN THE KNOW Enter your email here Sign Up Thanks for submitting!