Global engineering and sustainable development consultancy Arup has been appointed to support Wind Catching Systems (WCS) with the research and engineering advancement of the Windcatcher, a new multi-rotor floating offshore wind concept.
The Windcatcher challenges convention in offshore wind and seeks to reduce the levelized cost of energy (LCoE) of floating wind. It focuses on standardisation, scalability, and improvements in operations and acreage efficiency.
Arup will develop an advanced simulation model which integrates the relevant load effects and responses of the multi-rotor system. The simulation model will be used in subsequent engineering studies to evaluate and verify loads and performance of the Windcatcher for a range of operational conditions.
The latest United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) confirmed the need for massive expansion of renewable energy in order to keep the global temperature rise of 1.5°C limit within reach. Realising the potential of offshore wind, including floating, is central to the goal to achieve net zero by 2050.