Wind Trawler: Operation of a wind energy system in the far offshore environment

Abstract

A great untapped wind resource lies within the deep oceanic environment far from shore. Considering the technological and economic challenges of fixed offshore wind platforms to operate at great offshore depths and distances, we propose that this resource best be exploited by the use of a mobile floating wind-and-hydro power producing plant, termed the Wind Trawler. This paper explores preliminary design considerations for wind turbine, hydro turbine, and hull to optimize power performance ensure stability. The wind speed is modelled using long term averages from hindcast software to compare power production of a Wind Trawler and fixed wind turbine in the offshore environment.