The WindFloat Atlantic project, the world’s first submerged floating offshore wind farm, has achieved impressive results, generating a total of 320 GWh of electricity in four years. This amount is sufficient to power approximately 25,000 households annually, according to a recent report by IT之家 on September 6.
Situated off the coast of Portugal, the WindFloat Atlantic project consists of three floating platforms, each equipped with an 8.4 MW Vestas turbine. These submerged platforms are anchored to the seabed at a depth of 328 feet (100 meters) using chains to prevent them from drifting away. They are connected to the Viana do Costelo substation in Portugal via a 12.4-mile (20-kilometer) long cable.
In 2022, the project generated 78 million kilowatt-hours of electricity. However, the numbers have been on the rise, with the 2023 figure reaching 80 million kilowatt-hours. This success highlights the effectiveness of the submerged floating wind farm technology, which can be placed in deeper waters than traditional bottom-fixed turbines, typically limited to depths of around 150-200 feet (50-60 meters).
The unique advantage of submerged floating wind farms lies in their ability to harness wind energy more efficiently than land-based turbines. As the platforms are partially submerged underwater, they benefit from a tripartite active ballasting system, making them more stable and efficient in turbulent seas. This not only enhances their operational efficiency but also contributes to a more robust offshore power generation system.
The WindFloat Atlantic project has proven its resilience in the face of challenging weather conditions. In 2023, it withstood a storm with wind speeds of up to 86 miles per hour (139 kilometers per hour) and waves as high as 65 feet (20 meters), demonstrating the strength of offshore power generation systems.
The success of the WindFloat Atlantic project has significant implications for the future of renewable energy. As the world continues to transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, the potential of offshore wind farms is immense. By harnessing wind energy from deeper waters, these projects can tap into stronger and more consistent winds, resulting in increased efficiency and lower costs.
Moreover, the technology used in the WindFloat Atlantic project can be applied to other regions around the world, contributing to the global effort to combat climate change. As the world’s first submerged floating offshore wind farm, it serves as a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of the scientists, engineers, and professionals involved in its development.
In conclusion, the WindFloat Atlantic project has exceeded expectations, generating a total of 320 GWh of electricity in four years. This success highlights the potential of submerged floating wind farms as a key component in the global renewable energy landscape. With continued innovation and development, these projects can play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting a more sustainable future for the planet.
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