DNV updates seismic design guidance as wind expands into earthquake-prone regions
DNV Releases Updated Seismic Design Guidelines for Wind Power Plants
DNV, a leading authority in the energy industry, has recently unveiled the latest edition of its recommended practice DNV-RP-0585 focusing on the seismic design of wind power plants. This updated version aims to offer comprehensive guidance for the design of both onshore and offshore wind assets that are susceptible to earthquake loading.
Seismic Considerations in Wind Power Projects
With the rapid expansion of wind power projects in seismically active regions, particularly in the Asia-Pacific area, the impact of earthquake loading on wind turbines, foundations, offshore substations, power cables, and installation vessels has become a crucial factor to address. These seismic events pose unique engineering challenges that go beyond the conventional wind and wave design approaches.
Enhanced Guidelines for Seismic Risk Management
The revised recommended practice by DNV provides consolidated guidance for assessing and managing seismic risks throughout the design process. It complements the existing DNV standards for wind turbines, support structures, and offshore substations, aligning with projects designed according to the IEC 61400 series.
Key Updates in the 2026 Edition
Notable enhancements in the latest edition include improved guidance on seismic analysis methodologies and modelling requirements, updated recommendations for soil-structure interaction and foundation damping, clarifications on seismic loading and ground motion selection, as well as guidance for identifying critical design positions within large wind power plants. Additionally, new recommendations for installation vessels operating in seismic regions have been introduced, along with an informative appendix summarizing local seismic design requirements in Japan.
Industry Experts’ Insights
Mette Redanz, Vice President for Renewables Certification at DNV, emphasized the growing importance of seismic considerations in wind power projects, stating that the updated guidelines offer transparent methodologies for seismic design, ultimately ensuring safer and more reliable wind power projects in challenging environments. Marcus Klose, Project manager for the ACE joint industry project at DNV, highlighted the significance of close alignment between turbine, foundation, and geotechnical disciplines in effective seismic design.
Practical Application and Industry Support
Applicable to a wide range of wind projects in seismically active regions worldwide, DNV-RP-0585 provides comprehensive guidance on seismic hazard assessment, design load cases, geotechnical considerations, analysis methods, and post-earthquake actions. The recommended practice aims to support stakeholders involved in wind projects, including designers, developers, suppliers, purchasers, regulators, and certification bodies, fostering consistency and confidence across the industry.
In conclusion, the updated edition of DNV-RP-0585 signifies a significant step towards ensuring the resilience and safety of wind power projects in earthquake-prone regions, reflecting the continuous efforts of industry experts to enhance seismic design practices in the renewable energy sector.
