Wedoany.com Report-May 15, Ocean Winds, a joint venture between EDP Renováveis and Engie, is celebrating the fifth anniversary of the WindFloat Atlantic project, the world’s first semi-submersible floating offshore wind farm. Located about 20 kilometers off the coast of Portugal, the 25MW project has been operational since its launch and continues to exceed expectations, delivering reliable and clean energy.

Since it began operations, WindFloat Atlantic has generated a total accumulated output of 345 GWh, enough to power 25,000 Portuguese households each year. The project has seen a steady increase in electricity production, reaching 78 GWh in 2022, 80 GWh in 2023, and 86 GWh in 2024, demonstrating the growing potential of floating offshore wind technology. Ocean Winds highlighted the project's role in reinforcing Portugal’s leadership in the global energy transition.

To mark the anniversary, Ocean Winds held several events, including the unveiling of a commemorative plaque at the WindFloat Atlantic Operations and Maintenance (O&M) base. An institutional dinner aboard the Portuguese Navy’s NRP Sagres, a key national symbol, also took place. The dinner brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including the central and local governments, industry partners, and local communities, all of whom played a role in the success of the project.

Additionally, Ocean Winds released a report titled WindFloat Atlantic: Five Years Generating Clean Energy, which outlines the project's impact in Portugal and internationally. The report highlights WindFloat Atlantic’s economic, social, and environmental benefits, and its contribution to the future of floating offshore wind energy.

José Miguel Pinheiro, director of Ocean Winds for Iberia, expressed pride in the project’s performance and its strong ties to the local community. He noted, "We are now even more confident that the investment decision made in 2018 was the right one." Pinheiro emphasized the valuable insights gained from the project, including its impact on floating technology, its interaction with the marine environment, and its synergy with local communities. These lessons will be crucial for the development of future floating offshore wind projects.

With over 15 years of experience, from the WindFloat1 prototype to the success of WindFloat Atlantic, Ocean Winds is optimistic about the future of commercial-scale floating offshore wind projects. The project is seen as a model for the industry, not only contributing to Portugal's clean energy goals but also strengthening the European supply chain and fostering positive relationships with local communities.