Norway's Marine Energy Test Centre (METCentre) is set to conduct three floating wind pilot projects aimed at testing technologies designed to reduce the costs associated with floating offshore wind. The pilots will utilize floaters equipped with turbines of 15 MW or more.
While the specific companies involved in the pilots have not been disclosed pending the completion of the application process, METCentre has confirmed that its facilities are well-equipped to handle turbines of this size, which are essential for future floating offshore wind farms.
In late 2023, METCentre, located off Norway's west coast, received approval to expand its testing area by adding up to four new test sites. Currently, the site is home to the world's first floating offshore wind turbine and the Stiesdal-developed TetraSpar. Overall, there is capacity for seven turbines at the facility, which can collectively produce up to 85 MW.
The test area is positioned just a few kilometers from the Utsira Nord region, where Norway's first commercial floating offshore wind farm is planned. Arvid Nesse, head of METCentre and Norwegian Offshore Wind, expressed optimism about the initiative: “This is very good news for innovation in floating offshore wind. The technologies now being planned at METCentre will be crucial when we get started with Utsira Nord.”
The new test projects are currently confidential as they compete for funding. Nesse emphasized the unique capabilities of METCentre, stating, “We are the only place in the world ready with permits to test projects of this capacity.”
He also highlighted the importance of starting floating offshore wind developments in Norway without further delays. Gaining insights from both the construction and operational phases is critical to achieving the necessary cost reductions before the Utsira Nord project moves forward.
Nesse urged the Norwegian government to invest in demonstration and test projects to ensure the profitability of future commercial projects and to mitigate risks effectively. “Everything is in place here for Norway to take a leadership role in developing new technology and reducing costs in floating offshore wind,” he added.
