UKERC EDC: Publications

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Abstract:

The Merlin Wind Turbine Installation System has been designed and patented by The Engineering Business Ltd (EB). This project, phase 1 of the development, comprises a feasibility study carried out by EB, and part funded by the DTI with the key objective of 'Investigating the technical and economical viability of the Merlin system as an alternative technique for installing offshore wind turbines'.

This is the final report of the project, encompassing all project activities completed by EB to determine the fundamental engineering principles and the economics to support the system design.

The feasibility study concludes overall that:

The Merlin system is a technically viable, cost effective and therefore credible installation technique. It will operate in higher Sea States and install larger turbines than most current installation vessels, yet can be produced more easily and is cheaper to build, operate and maintain than new build conventional Turbine Installation Vessels (TIVs).

This installation technology contributes to the future proofing of the offshore wind industry by enabling whole turbines to be removed from site and returned to shore for future upgrades and de-commissioning.

The case for further development and offshore demonstration of the Merlin installation system is overwhelming.

This report is divided into the following sections: