In a statement, the companies said, “Floating substations, installed in deep water, have several advantages, including a lighter substructure, easier and asset-light installation, and reduced decommissioning costs.

“The floating substation will be based on a proven semisubmersible substructure and is designed to operate in the most extreme environments with enhanced stability. It can be scaled-up as required by clients.

“In addition, the design will address the industrialization phase as it can be adapted for fabrication and assembly worldwide.”

The companies said they plan to combine Saipem’s expertise in engineering complex and sustainable offshore infrastructure, including floating solutions, with Siemens Energy’s experience in transmission systems.

Saipem chief commercial officer Fabrizio Botta said, “Our ambition is to take advantage of our unique expertise to jointly develop a cutting-edge floating solution for offshore substations.

“The new concept will be an enabler, enhancing offshore wind developments in deep water, lowering overall infrastructure investment.”

Siemens Energy vice president transmission systems Augustin Tenorio said the JV will “significantly optimize” the weight, electrical efficiency and operating life of offshore substations.

Source: https://www.rivieramm.com/news-content-hub/saipem-siemens-energy-to-jointly-develop-floating-offshore-substation-72743