Offshore wind turbines are typically fixed devices anchored to the seabed by a foundation. The advantages of a floating offshore system (economic, reusable, deeper water depths) as compared to fixed structures have resulted in increased interest in floating technologies. The major type of floating wind systems in use today are semisubmersible and concrete structures. The development of a dedicated barge capable of transiting from one offshore location to another for wind energy generation is in its infancy with minimal application today. With predicted increases in the use of sustainable energy in future years as an alternative to the burning of hydrocarbons, including the offshore wind sector, a self-propelled mobile unit is an attractive proposition.

Investigators have developed a conceptual movable, ship-like/barge which would have a wind turbine secured to its deck for offshore wind energy electricity generation. The structure could be moved off location in response to catastrophic weather events (e.g., hurricanes, gale force winds, tsunami, ice events) and positioned offshore of coastal areas requiring lower-cost energy production or that are in need of power after a grid failure. The system, named “Energy Fishing,”  is capable of rotating in the horizontal plane so that the wind turbine blades are positioned in response to changes in wind direction, allowing the production of the maximum amount of energy at all times.

Competitive Advantages

• Generation of sustainable wind-based electricity at multiple offshore locations as needed.
• Can be moved off location in response to catastrophic weather events.
• Capable of being repositioned offshore in an impacted coastal area experiencing a power grid failure.

Opportunity

The global offshore wind energy production market was valued at $27.33 billion in 2021, with an expected 18.82% CAGR through 2030 to a value of over $129 billion.

Rowan University is looking for a partner for further development and commercialization of this technology through a license. The inventor is available to collaborate with interested companies.