Off the coast of Occitanie, France, a new chapter in renewable energy is unfolding. Ocean Winds, a joint venture between EDP Renewables and ENGIE, has successfully installed the first floating wind turbine for the Éoliennes Flottantes du Golfe du Lion (EFGL) project. This milestone marks a significant stride in France’s floating offshore wind ambitions, potentially reshaping the energy landscape and sparking innovation in the sector.
The EFGL project, located 16 km off the French Mediterranean coast, is a testament to the growing viability of floating wind technology. The first of three 10 MW turbines, each standing an impressive 186 metres at blade tip, was assembled at Port-La Nouvelle and towed to its final location by a dedicated convoy. Two further turbines are scheduled for installation this summer, with the project expected to be fully operational by the end of August.
Marc Hirt, Country Manager for Ocean Winds in France, expressed the company’s commitment to floating offshore wind, stating, “This first installation at sea is a clear demonstration of Ocean Winds’ long-standing commitment to floating offshore wind, it represents a significant step forward for floating wind in the Occitanie region and for the future of offshore wind in France.”
The three-turbine EFGL pilot farm will be anchored to the seabed using nine mooring lines and is expected to generate enough electricity to power around 50,000 people. This project not only underscores the potential of floating wind technology but also highlights the collaborative efforts between private enterprises and public institutions, with Banque des Territoires playing a crucial role in the project’s development.
The successful installation of the first floating wind turbine in the EFGL project could accelerate the adoption of floating wind technology in other regions with deep waters and strong winds. It may also spur further investment in research and development, driving innovation in turbine design, mooring systems, and grid integration. Moreover, this project could serve as a model for other countries looking to harness the power of offshore winds, potentially leading to a global shift towards more sustainable and efficient energy solutions.
As the EFGL project progresses, it will be interesting to observe its impact on the local economy, job creation, and the broader energy market. The project’s success could pave the way for larger-scale floating wind farms, further reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to the fight against climate change. In the meantime, the sight of French sailors navigating around a floating wind turbine will serve as a powerful symbol of the ongoing energy transition.