J-POWER Introduces earthquake-resistant foundation for offshore wind farms

The structure's innovative design significantly reduces earthquake vibrations.

Electric Power Development Co., Ltd. (J-POWER) has worked with the University of Tokyo to develop the "Flexible Tripile," a new foundation for bottom-fixed offshore wind turbines that was specifically designed for Japan's topography.

According to the company, the structure provides seismic isolation from the ground, improving constructability in areas with shallow bedrock like Japan.

Flexible Tripile consists of three piles and a steel main pipe, with the central steel main pipe connected to the wind turbine tower. The integrated steel pipe section allows the entire wind turbine to sway slowly (long-period motion), reducing the risk of tower oscillations being amplified due to resonance with seismic motion.

Additionally, the devised seismic isolation effect minimises earthquake-induced vibrations. 

J-POWER said the simplified foundation components of this technology lead to lower construction costs compared to traditional methods. This is expected to be easily adaptable to larger wind turbines in the future.

The company said research on Flexible Tripile will continue to put it into practical use.