MARIN has build the first ever model of a so called ‘Monobase’ foundation. The prototype will be tested in these two weeks in the MARIN facilities in Wageningen the Netherlands.

The model will be used to test all the main characteristics of the tow, installation and the inplace condition.

The monobase wind is a new foundation for large offshore wind turbines based on a combination of existing and proven offshore technologies.

The foundation and turbine can be completely assembled onshore and towed to the installation site were it will be installed by a ballasting operation without the need for a crane vessel or a lifting system.

The MonoBase has been developed as an efficient foundation system for minimum 45 m water depth and a minimum 5 MW wind turbine during tow, installation and the lifetime of the turbine. According to the company, this system solves the problem of installing a heavy gravity base by splitting the system into a tower and a base that can slide with regard to each other.