Classification society ABS has issued an approval in principle (AIP) for Encomara’s Squid system, a disconnectable mooring solution designed to support floating offshore wind projects, the companies said.
Encomara said the system adapts proven mooring technology widely used in floating production operations. The concept employs established offshore equipment and installation methods intended to improve safety and reduce complexity during turbine installation and periods when units are taken off station.
Rob Langford, ABS vice president for global offshore renewables, said the rapid expansion of floating wind makes innovation in established technologies increasingly important. “Floating offshore wind continues to evolve rapidly, and innovation in proven technologies such as disconnectable systems plays an important role in supporting safe and efficient deployment,” he said. Langford added: “ABS is pleased to support Encomara in this development through our AIP process, which provides early-stage technical review and Class requirements.”
Ian Donald, managing director of Encomara, said the system could help streamline project timelines. “The potential efficiency gains, not to mention improvements in project scheduling for offshore turbine operators, could be game-changing,” he said. Describing the design’s origin, he added: “This is a prime example of drawing on decades of North Sea oil and gas engineering heritage and repurposing it to support energy transition through the faster roll-out of offshore wind turbines.”
Donald said securing ABS’s approval confirms the system aligns with international offshore standards. “Obtaining ABS AIP certification confirms our design meets international offshore standards and is an important step forward in realizing the huge potential of SQUID,” he said.
ABS said it continues to evaluate emerging offshore technologies to support safe asset development and management.
