An offshore substation provides a reliable and efficient method of transferring electricity from an offshore wind turbine to onshore grids. They are structures that convert electricity to higher voltages for long-distance transmissions. In an age where we are experiencing higher numbers of offshore wind farms, tidal, and wave energy projects, understanding how to ensure the safe and effective installation of offshore substations is vital to any project.
What is an offshore substation?
An offshore substation (OSS) is a hub that collects, transforms, and then transmits electricity that has been produced by offshore wind turbines or other forms of offshore renewable energy projects to onshore grids. The substation is designed to convert electricity to a higher voltage that is suitable for long-distance transmission.
An offshore substation is either fixed to the seabed using foundations such as jackets or monopiles or are floating offshore substation that is anchored and then buoyed. Floating designs are incredibly popular, especially in locations where there is deeper water, as it allows for greater flexibility to scale and adapt to different wind farm sites offshore.
What is the typical design of an offshore substation?
There are a few key elements to the design of an offshore substation, including:
- Cable deck
The cable deck allows for the safe pull-in installation of export cables. These are the cables that connect the substation with onshore facilities.
- Utility deck
This is the level of the substation that includes rooms for day crews and storage for any additional support equipment.
- Main deck
The floor that houses the high and medium-voltage equipment. This includes the critical power transformer.
- Roof deck
The main crane is located on the roof deck. This is used for lifting heavy equipment during the construction phases and for any future ongoing maintenance operations.
Offshore substations are used to facilitate efficient energy transportation to onshore locations. It is designed to reduce transmission losses and improve the stability of the grid. Substations are critical components of the network to meet compliance and maintain the reliability of energy.
How is an offshore substation built?
Building an offshore substation platform involves a custom design that is suited to the size and location of the wind farm or other type of offshore renewable energy project. It involves the integration of dynamic cables, electrical equipment and machinery that can withstand extreme weather conditions. Large cranes and other specialist vessels transport and install the substations and once installed there is rigorous on-going maintenance and testing to maintain strict operational standards.
What is the advantage of a floating offshore substation?
One of the key benefits of floating offshore substations is that it removes the need for difficult seabed foundations. Seabed foundations can be costly to install and leave a lasting, negative, environmental impact.
Working with expert offshore substation services
Designing and installing an offshore substation to maximise offshore renewable energy projects, such as wind farms, is a massive undertaking. That’s why it is so important that you have the support of a professional team of experts with the experience of successfully undertaking such projects. The best teams for these types of services are those that pay great attention to detail, engaging with clients and contractors from start to finish to ensure safety, efficiency, and timescale are met with ease.
Find the company with the highest-trained contractors, holding certification in CISRS-approved training courses, NEBOSH, SMSTS, IOSH Managing Safely, Advanced Scaffolders, and a range of management and safety training and certification. Safety should always be emphasised and working with a trustworthy company that provides safe offshore substation access solutions, you can have confidence that the final product is one that meets all strict standards.
