Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 24, Astilleros San Enrique, a division of Spain-based Grupo Marina Meridional, has begun constructing the first of two floating solar platforms for the BlueNewables project at the former Factorias Vulcano site in Vigo, Spain. The milestone, marked by the keel laying of the initial platform, represents progress in the development of innovative marine energy solutions.

The BlueNewables PV-bos technology.

The first platform, measuring 64 by 41 meters, will support 600 photovoltaic panels and generate approximately 0.50 megawatts of power. It is slated for installation at the Port of Valencia in 2026. The project, launched in March 2025, includes two PhotoVoltaic-Bluenewables offshore solutions (PV-BOS) units with a combined capacity of 1 megawatt. Upon completion, the facility is expected to produce 1,500 megawatt-hours annually, sufficient to meet the energy needs of about 500 households while reducing carbon dioxide emissions by up to 620 tons per year.

“The construction is progressing on schedule, and our collaboration with the shipyard has been nothing short of outstanding. We’re proud to be part of their client portfolio and to contribute to expanding their order book,” BlueNewables stated in a LinkedIn update. The project benefits from funding through the Renmarinas program, supported by IDAE and NextGeneration EU funds, highlighting its role in advancing sustainable energy initiatives.

In a separate endeavor, Astilleros San Enrique, in collaboration with Nuevo Astillero de Huelva, has secured a contract to build six offshore wind vessels for UK-based operator Tidal Transit, with construction set to begin this year. This contract underscores the shipyard’s growing expertise in renewable energy infrastructure.

BlueNewables, a Spanish engineering consultancy focused on marine energy, has achieved several development milestones for its PV-BOS floating solar project since June, moving closer to offshore deployment. Additionally, in April, Spain-based Abervian partnered with BlueNewables to support the development of a 1-megawatt floating solar platform, also planned for installation at the Port of Valencia in 2026. This collaboration strengthens the project’s technical and operational foundation.

The BlueNewables initiative demonstrates the potential of floating solar technology to harness renewable energy while optimizing coastal infrastructure. With installation and initial testing scheduled for 2026, the project is poised to contribute significantly to Spain’s clean energy goals, supporting local communities and reducing environmental impact through innovative marine-based solutions.