Floating Fuel Depots for Offshore Wind

The coming years will see a significant increase in marine traffic associated with offshore wind development, at the same time as maritime technology will introduce measures to decarbonise with clean fuels and electrification of vessels. A system of Floating Fuel Depots (FFDs) is proposed as a means of facilitating the supply of fuels to this fleet, while optimising transit distances, reducing emissions and easing pressures on port facilities. FFDs comprise modular moored platforms that are outfitted with plant and storage equipment to support the servicing of marine vessels at optimal locations, close to the construction or operational sites. Through this project, Apollo, EMEC and Aquatera will thoroughly explore the technical and economic potential of the FFD concept, while investigating the environmental, societal and economic opportunity that they present.


To demonstrate the potential of the Floating fuels depot project, a network of strategic locations for FFDs will be considered for marine traffic supporting the North Sea Scotwind development. Focussing on future fuel types (including hydrogen, e-methanol and ammonia etc) we will identify optimum location for boats to refuel. These will remove unnecessary additional movements back to ports and harbours, removing journeys which are solely for refuelling, thus reducing carbon emissions and contributing to the efficiency of the entire sector.

A concept design will be developed for a modular Floating Fuel Depot system, with emphasis on repurposing of existing infrastructure, considering offshore generation and storage of fuels for the maritime sector. Balancing the key drivers of supply and demand, forecasted traffic, technology availability and initial and through life costs, this study will provide a clear path forward for this concept.

Key stakeholders will be consulted to estimate timing, evaluate societal benefit and review all legislation and consenting constraints, producing a solution which brings tangible decarbonisation and commercial benefits across the value chain.

Our aim is to progress this project so that it is ready in time to support the rapid expansion in offshore wind (ScotWind and INTOG), support sustainable decommissioning of North Sea oil and gas assets as well as life extension projects, as well as freight and tourism vessels. By considering the specifics of the ScotWind development we aim to inform the potential for the whole maritime sector, both UK and abroad.

At the end of the project, Apollo, EMEC and Aquatera look forward to sharing the outcomes and deliverables industry wide.