NEWS

Groundbreaking offshore wind feeder technology proves resilient in rigorous model testing, marking a significant step towards improving U.S offshore wind installation capacity.

Friede & Goldman (F&G), a leading provider of innovative offshore engineering solutions, is pleased to announce the successful completion of model testing for its BargeRack offshore wind feeder technology. Conducted at MARIN, a world-renowned maritime research institute in the Netherlands, the testing demonstrated the BargeRack’s exceptional performance in challenging wave conditions.

The BargeRack, a modular, safe, and cost-effective feeder solution designed to comply with US Jones Act for offshore wind, underwent rigorous testing in wave heights up to 2.5 meters. The results of the testing closely matched predictions from F&G’s simulations, validating the accuracy of their engineering models and the capability of the solution.

“We are extremely satisfied by the outcome of the model testing,” said Rick Rogers, Chief Naval Architect at Friede & Goldman. “The BargeRack’s ability to lift the feeder barge in the design wave height while keeping the turbine components well within the manufacturer’s acceleration limits is a testament to the innovative design and engineering that went into its development.”

The successful completion of the model testing marks a major milestone for the BargeRack project, bringing F&G closer to commercializing this groundbreaking technology. The BargeRack offers several advantages over traditional feeder solutions, including reduced installation and CAPEX costs, improved safety, significantly reduced project risks, greater flexibility, and improved workability in harsh weather conditions.

The BargeRack technology previously received Approval in Principle (AIP) by DNV GL Noble Denton Marine Warranty Survey (MWS) and from both ABS and DNV class societies where it was recognized for meeting the highest standards in safety, reliability, and performance.

• Jones Act Compliant: Promotes the use of the existing Jones Act compliant tug and barge fleet.
• Enhanced Safety: Unmanned – Eliminates hazardous offshore crew transfers, significantly increasing operational safety.
• Efficient Operations: Enables direct lifting of Wind Turbine components from a fixed deck direct to foundation, eliminating redundant handling and streamlining installation processes.
• Innovative Design: Features a state-of-the-art removable side-mounted configuration with integrated deck skidding system, optimizing space utilization.
• Universal Compatibility: Engineered to accommodate most existing barges and designed to be scalable for broad retrofit application across the global Wind Turbine Installation Vessel (WTIV) fleet

“We are excited to be one step closer to bringing this innovative solution to the market.” said Todd Allen, Director – Renewables at Friede & Goldman. “The success of the model testing reaffirms the significant benefit this technology can offer the offshore energy industry. The F&G team has worked closely with industry suppliers and fabricators to refine and ready the technology for deployment.”

F&G is now working with vessel owners to engineer the BargeRack retrofit onto existing vessels and incorporate its capabilities into next-generation WTIVs. The company is confident that the BargeRack will play a significant role in meeting the growing demand for renewable energy.

About Friede & Goldman:

With a 75-year legacy, Friede & Goldman pioneered the offshore drilling industry with almost 300 vessels in service and is the world’s leading independent designer of mobile offshore drilling units. With 127 jack-up units built, F&G has seamlessly transitioned its expertise to the renewable energy market, focusing on wind turbine installation vessels and setting new standards in the offshore wind industry.