Wind energy calculations and hydrodynamic analysis of a 20 MW floating wind turbine

This paper investigates the behavior of a floating wind turbine, under irregular waves. It provides a thorough description of the geometrical characteristics of the floating body and the results in terms of the incident waves. Details concerning the modeling of the system are discussed, whereas numerical results obtained in the frequency domain are presented. The floating structure, which is exposed to the action of regular and irregular waves in finite-depth waters, encompasses a semi-submersible offshore floating structure, moored with conventional catenary mooring lines, supporting a 20 MW Wind Turbine. The analysis aims to investigate which sea states yield the significant wave loads of the offshore structure, due to operating wave conditions, obtained through wave hind-cast time series in the Mediterranean Sea. Finally, the annual energy output of the 20MW Wind Turbine is presented.