This project explored how to make offshore wind turbine towers more sustainable, cost-effective, and easier to build. Led by Queen’s University Belfast, the team developed a new type of tower made from precast concrete in a lattice structure—an alternative to traditional steel tubular towers.
The goal was to reduce costs by up to 50% and improve environmental performance by using low-carbon concrete and corrosion-resistant materials. The towers are designed for both fixed and floating offshore platforms.
Researchers created advanced computer models to test 16 different tower designs, looking at how they would perform under wind and wave loads. They built and tested small-scale prototypes in wave tanks and developed a hydrodynamic simulation tool to predict how waves affect the structure. These tests helped validate the design and showed promising results.
The project also supported student research and led to a successful €25 million EU grant bid to continue this work. Despite some challenges, the team achieved key milestones and laid the groundwork for future development.
Next steps include further testing, refining the design, and working with industry to bring these towers to market. This project shows how innovative engineering can help make offshore wind energy more sustainable and affordable.