ABSTRACT
The expenses related to the foundations of an offshore wind farm constitute about one third of the total cost. For wind turbines located on deeper waters, the cost of the foundations might be even higher. Thus, a new technology is needed to reduce the total cost of offshore wind turbines. This technology could be the bucket foundation. The first part of the seabed penetration is caused by self-weight. Secondly, suction is applied inside the bucket chamber. The suction creates a differential pressure across the bucket lid, effectively increasing the downward force on the bucket while the water flow reduces the skirt tip resistance. As a result, this foundation does not require heavy installation equipment.
