Norwegian maritime services firm BOA and France’s BrestPort have signed a cooperation agreement to develop methods for launching floating offshore wind turbines, the companies said in a joint statement.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU), signed on October 6, focuses on creating safe, cost-effective, and scalable launch solutions for floating wind structures using port infrastructure and specialized vessels.
The collaboration will leverage BrestPort’s marine renewable energy terminal along with BOA’s fleet of semi-submersible barges and offshore engineering experience.
Both parties said the partnership is intended to accelerate the deployment of floating wind projects in Brittany, the Atlantic region, and potentially wider European waters.
“Developing robust solutions for the launching of floating wind structures is a critical step for the offshore renewable energy industry,” said Christophe Chabert of BrestPort. “It requires not only advanced engineering and specialised vessels, but also a port infrastructure capable of handling large components safely and efficiently.”
He added that the MoU “allows us to combine BrestPort’s strategic location, facilities and experience in industrial maritime operations with BOA’s fleet and offshore expertise.”
Under the agreement, the partners will explore various technical configurations—including floating and grounded barge-based solutions—to improve operational efficiency while maintaining safety and environmental standards.
BOA chairman Ole T. Bjornevik said the agreement aligns with the company’s strategy to support the growth of offshore renewables.
“BOA are proud to support BrestPort in the development of effective and economical solutions for launching of wind turbine foundations and other heavy cargoes, based on our unique fleet of semi-submersible barges,” Bjornevik said. “As offshore wind drives the global shift to sustainable energy, this MoU demonstrates BOA’s commitment to enabling efficient and sustainable developments through innovative maritime solutions.”
BrestPort said the agreement supports its goal of becoming a key European hub for the assembly and deployment of floating offshore wind technology.
