Assessing the Life Cycle Environmental Performance of Floating Wind Turbines

Wind energy has expanded rapidly as a key low-carbon technology; however, its environmental performance cannot be assessed solely based on the operational phase. Floating wind turbines introduce additional structural components and offshore activities that significantly affect life cycle impacts. This study provides a comprehensive review of the life cycle environmental performance of floating wind systems by synthesizing existing life cycle assessment studies from a cradle-to-grave perspective. The analysis covers manufacturing, transportation, installation, operation and maintenance, and end-of-life stages, with particular focus on offshore-specific processes. Reported global warming potential values for floating wind turbines range from 7.23 to 31.4 g CO₂-eq/kWh, demonstrating competitive low-carbon performance. Manufacturing, driven largely by steel-intensive floating platforms and mooring systems, is identified as the dominant contributor, while vessel operations during installation and maintenance also play a significant role. The findings highlight the importance of holistic and site-specific life cycle modelling to support sustainable deep-water wind deployment.