TetraSpar Demonstrator (2021)
- Concession holder:
Marin Energi Testsenter (METCentre) - Owner:
Stiesdal / Shell / RWE / TEPCO
- Type of foundation:
Floating, TetraSpar - Installed capacity:
3,6 MW - Technology:
Wind Turbine, Siemens-Gamesa
- Mooring:
Drag chain anchor - Status:
Operational since Q4/2021
Bringing floating wind to the next level the TetstraSpar Demonstrator started the operational phase of the test period during Q4 2021. Its modular layout consists of a tubular steel main structure with a suspended keel. It is expected to offer important competitive advantages over existing floating wind concepts, with the potential for leaner manufacturing, assembly and installation processes with lower material costs.
The components for the large floating prototype was manufactured by Welcon A/S in Give, Denmark, before being transported to the Port of Grenaa to be assembled. Following launch of the foundation, the wind turbine was mounted on the foundation at the quayside using a land-based crane. From there, the foundation structure including the turbine was towed to the test site in the northern part of the North Sea, moored to the seabed with three anchor lines and connected to the electrical grid.
The project has been successfully exporting clean energy to the Norwegian grid, while also providing important insights for the project partners into what it takes to successfully develop, deliver and operate future commercial floating offshore wind projects.