HD HHI secures ABS approval for floating offshore substation

Concept earns SMART Tier 3 approval from marine certification body.

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd. (HD HHI) has received approval in principle (AIP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for a new floating offshore substation design intended to support deepwater wind farms.

The concept received a SMART (Structural Health Management) Tier 3 AIP from ABS, recognising its alignment with Tier 3 requirements under the ABS Guide for Smart Functions for Marine Vessels and Offshore Units.

The approval acknowledges the system’s design, which integrates high-fidelity measurements with predictive modelling to significantly enhance structural integrity management.

“ABS is proud to support this market with our global standards for offshore wind foundations, both fixed and floating, substations, and the unique vessels that support the industry,” said Robert Langford, Vice President for Global Offshore Renewables at ABS.

HD HHI Executive Vice President Byungki Choi said the company appreciated ABS’s technical support, adding that with validated real-time monitoring and cost-saving solutions, the company looks forward to continuing technical co-operation as the project progresses into construction and operation.