2016, DNV-GL, Wind Enabling Actions, Study on UK Offshore Wind Variability

The Crown Estate Commissioners (TCE) has appointed Garrad Hassan and Partners Ltd., (DNV GL) to undertake a study into the variability of offshore wind speeds in UK waters. In this study, DNV GL has identified, assessed and tested options for deriving two potential industry & products: A robust definitive wind speed index for UK offshore wind; and, A new characterisation of Inter-Annual Variability (IAV) in wind speed that is specific to the UK offshore wind climate. The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility of a reduction in Levelised Cost of Energy (LCoE) for future offshore wind projects by improving financing conditions through the provision of an improved characterisation of the long-term UK offshore wind resource. For the purpose of this study and to assess the potential reduction in LCoE, a base case scenario considering the use of a nearby meteorological station and an IAV of 6.0% has been assumed to represent the current industry standard.