A mixed-method optimisation and simulation framework for supporting logistical decisions during offshore wind farm installations

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

34 Citations (Scopus)
67 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

With a typical investment of in excess of £100 million for each project, the installation phase of offshore wind farms is an area where substantial cost-reductions can be achieved; however, to-date there have been relatively few studies exploring this. In this paper, we develop a mixed-method framework which exploits the complementary strengths of two decision-support methods: discrete-event simulation and robust optimisation. The simulation component allows developers to estimate the impact of user-defined asset selections on the likely cost and duration of the full or partial completion of the installation process. The optimisation component provides developers with an installation schedule that is robust to changes in operation durations due to weather uncertainties. The combined framework provides a decision-support tool which enhances the individual capability of both models by feedback channels between the two, and provides a mechanism to address current OWF installation projects. The combined tool, verified and validated by external experts, was applied to an installation case study to illustrate the application of the combined approach. An installation schedule was identified which accounted for seasonal uncertainties and optimised the ordering of activities.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)894-906
Number of pages13
JournalEuropean Journal of Operational Research
Volume264
Issue number3
Early online date26 May 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Feb 2018

Keywords

  • OR in Energy
  • mixed methods
  • action research
  • offshore wind farm
  • installation logistics

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'A mixed-method optimisation and simulation framework for supporting logistical decisions during offshore wind farm installations'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this