### DNV Validates Pioneering Compact Floating Offshore Wind Foundation Design
In a significant step forward for the renewable energy sector, the Norwegian headquartered Fred. Olsen 1848 has successfully achieved the DNV Basic Design Certification for its innovative dBrunel floating offshore wind turbine. This milestone not only underscores the firm’s commitment to advancing the offshore wind industry but also signifies the substantial progress made in integrating reliable and efficient technologies into emerging projects.
#### Background
Fred. Olsen 1848 unveiled its dBrunel floating wind concept in 2022, showcasing an advanced design that leverages modular components for streamlined production and deployment. The platform’s unique rotor-nacelle assembly is supported by two inclined towers that converge beneath the nacelle interface. The substructure itself is a column-stabilized unit, connected by submerged horizontal pontoons, which allows for stable anchoring using a single-point mooring system through a turret, capable of weather vaning.
#### Certification Process
The Basic Design Certification is a crucial step in project development, ensuring that the foundation complies with DNV’s stringent standards. This process involves a comprehensive assessment of the design basis, basic design, and overall technical specifications. The certification highlights the readiness of dBrunel for further refinement and integration into commercial projects.
DNV’s certification process is highly regarded within the industry, providing maximum stakeholder confidence by validating that all possible risks have been understood and minimized. With its comprehensive approach covering design, fabrication, transport, installation, commissioning, and in-service phases, DNV ensures that floating offshore wind projects meet stringent safety and quality criteria.
#### Industry Collaboration
The development of dBrunel involved close collaboration among industry leaders. Ramboll, as the main contractor, played a pivotal role in handling the engineering aspects. Seasystems and MOOG Focal contributed significantly with their expertise in mooring and high-voltage swivels, respectively. The integrated approach not only streamlined the design process but also underscored Fred. Olsen 1848’s dedication to project optimization.
Dr. Denis Matha from Ramboll noted: “This project marks a milestone for both Ramboll and Fred. Olsen 1848. It represents one of the first to successfully navigate the new DNV Basic Design Certification scheme, leveraging advanced methodologies and industry standards to achieve this groundbreaking certification.”
#### Future Outlook
The achievement of Basic Design Certification for dBrunel paves the way for further commercialization. With projected capacity reaching almost 217 GW by