DNV GL has been joined by seven companies, including ExxonMobil and Statoil, to examine the potential of floating wind turbines to power offshore petroleum installations.

DNV GL said initial studies have shown that a standalone wind-powered water-injection system could become cost competitive for various types of applications.

In particular, for water injection far from the production platform and when costly retrofitting is not an option.
In order to develop the concept futher, DNV GL launched the WIN WIN joint industry partnership, which also includes ENI Norge, Nexen Petroleum UK, VNG, PG Flow Solutions, and ORE Catapult.

DNV GL said the technical concept is being developed and the technical feasibility assessed in detail :
“Two of the main challenges being addressed are the off-grid operation of the system and the reservoir’s response to variable injection rates”, the company said.

DNV GL segment leader – floating wind turbines Johan Sandberg said: “Once the technical hurdles are cleared, the concept’s economic viability will be analysed using relevant and realistic cases provided by the JIP partners. Then added :

“Initial results are promising, and with the operators on board we are able to test the concept on real cases.
In parallel with finalizing the initial technical and economic assessment of the concept, we are now thinking about the next steps, both looking for other relevant applications of the system.”

Statoil renewables research group manager Hanne Wigum said: “The overall concept needs maturing up to a point where it can be considered a viable option in field development studies.”