Ice Risk Analysis for Floating Wind Turbines and Associated Subsea Infrastructure, Offshore Newfoundland and Labrador

Ice risk to floating wind turbines and associated subsea infrastructure has been evaluated for an area of interest (AOI) covering the northern Grand Banks, Flemish Pass and Orphan Basin, primarily conducted through two publicly-funded R&D projects. Iceberg and sea ice loads corresponding to a 50-year return period were estimated for the study area, considering both the influence of ice management and mooring system compliance. Iceberg contact rates with mooring lines was also assessed and the frequency and severity of atmospheric icing of turbines was modelled using available data. Iceberg risk to subsea electrical cables was estimated using an updated iceberg contact frequency model, and physical testing and modelling programs were used to develop numerical models for assessing the response of a cable, given iceberg contact occurs. Based on the results of these two projects, it was concluded that the ice risk to floating wind turbines and associated subsea infrastructure in the AOI is minimal. The changing ice regime in the region, resulting in an ongoing decline in sea ice and iceberg presence, indicates that ice risk may be even less of a concern in the future.