New certification guideline

Offshore Wind Energy

GL Renewables Certification (GL RC) has published its new “Guideline for the Certification of Offshore Wind Turbines”. It provides a fully integrated design and analysis concept for offshore wind turbines. Every aspect of development from blade tip, to foundation and power export cable is considered, while also allowing for offshore type and project certification.

GL RC's guidelines and technical notes are discussed in its Wind and Marine Energy Committee before publication. The Wind and Marine Energy Committee represents the relevant groups in the field of wind energy. The members of the committee are drawn from public authorities, wind turbine and component manufacturers, engineering consultants, institutes, universities, technical associations and insurance companies.

“The updated guideline reflects the main developments in the offshore wind industry,” explains Andreas Schröter, Managing Director of GL RC. “For example, it considers the increased size of turbines and mitigation of loads using advanced, intelligent control systems. As a consequence, the examination and testing of control systems are now part of the guideline.” Furthermore, the new version contains a number of novel analysis methods, for example taking into consideration the effects of cyclic loads for piles under compression and tension. Also the requirements for floating wind turbines in terms of load stability and mooring safety requirements are addressed.

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