The Esteyco prototype, which generates 5 MW of power, was transported to its final position, in the Canary Oceanic Platform’s (PLOCAN) test bed, using conventional towing systems. Once the prototype’s foundations were laid and it was securely anchored, the tower was deployed. This operation reduces installation costs by around 30%, by eliminating the need to hire special boats for their assembly, which can cost up to half a million euros a day.
The installation is a part of ELICAN, a European project led by Esteyco, where a cross-functional team of companies such as Gamesa, ALE Heavylift and Dewi as well as other European organizations have joined forces to market a disruptive, cost-effective and high capacity integrated substructure system for deep-sea offshore wind energy.
This wind turbine is an example of the Canary Island’s potential as a natural lab for new technological developments as well as offshore projects that can be extrapolated world-wide. What’s more, it is an opportunity to make the most of the island’s natural resources and generate electricity, especially considering that the Canarian Energy Strategy 2025 (EENCan) contemplates implementing 310 MW of offshore wind power, a huge step towards greater energy self-sufficiency.