Backup Power Supply Technologies for Offshore Wind Turbines

This technical report evaluates and compares various technologies for backup power supply systems designed for hydrogen-producing offshore wind turbines. The study addresses the challenge of maintaining a constant electric power supply during periods of calm winds when the turbines are not connected to the onshore electrical grid. It investigates three different backup power supply systems: a fuel cell system combined with a battery storage system, a hydrogen internal combustion engine with a battery storage system, and a hydrogen internal combustion engine without battery storage. The report outlines the efficiency, lifetime, robustness, maintenance requirements, space consumption, and costs associated with each system. The findings indicate that the hybrid system combining a hydrogen combustion engine with battery storage offers a balanced solution, optimizing efficiency and minimizing maintenance needs. The report also discusses the implications of these technologies for the future of offshore wind energy and hydrogen production, emphasizing the importance of a reliable backup power supply for operational continuity.