Design and performance validation of a hybrid offshore renewable energy platform

The paper presents the state of development of the W2Power hybrid, combining offshore wind and wave energy in a large but lightweight semi-submersible floating platform. Results of design optimisation and proof-of-concept experiments by tank testing are reviewed. Modelled hydrodynamic performance of the floating structure at full scale are compared with results of scaled validation tests in further tank experiments. Business cases for the hybrid are analysed using a simplified cost/revenue model, taking into account both CAPEX, OPEX and lifetime revenues from both wind- and wave-generated electricity.