Saipem Unveils Star1 Semi-Submersible Floating Wind Foundation Technology
Saipem has introduced its innovative Star1 semi-submersible floating wind foundation technology, which has been selected for two upcoming floating wind projects in the Mediterranean Sea. The Star1 technology features a unique star-like design, with three arms converging at the center to support the tower for next-generation turbines, including those exceeding 20 MW in capacity.
One of the key advantages of the Star1 technology is its ability to minimize stresses and movements of the turbine while optimizing the loads on the mooring lines that anchor it to the seabed. This design ensures remarkable stability in water, significantly reducing turbine stresses and movements.
According to Saipem, the Star1 technology is now ready for the Front-End Engineering Design phase followed by detailed design and industrial-scale deployment. The company recently signed a strategic agreement with Divento for the utilization of Star1 in the 7 Seas Med project in Sicily and the Ichnusa Wind Power project in Sardinia.
Andrea Spessa, Head of Department Offshore, Midstream and Downstream at DNV, stated, “According to the recent technical and commercial bankability assessment by DNV, Star1 is at an advanced stage of technical maturity. A full-scale prototype testing is not considered necessary to demonstrate bankability. Saipem has made considerable efforts to ensure stability, good performance, and industrialization of the Star1, with the first concept developed in 2008.”
Guido D’Aloisio, Chief Commercial Officer of Saipem, added, “Star1 represents a significant step forward in technological innovation applied to the energy transition. This technology is the result of Saipem’s many years of experience in offshore engineering and further demonstrates our ability to work on innovative and sustainable solutions for the development of floating offshore wind, in Italy and abroad.”
With its cutting-edge design and proven capabilities, the Star1 technology is poised to play a crucial role in advancing the development of floating offshore wind projects, contributing to the growth of renewable energy sources and sustainable solutions for the future.