Gazelle Wind Power (Gazelle) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Bridon-Bekaert Ropes Group (BBRG) to supply its advanced mooring lines for its 2MW floating wind platform.
The project is based at the Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands (PLOCAN).
Gazelle and BBRG further plan to develop a +15MW platform based on Gazelle’s unique hybrid floating wind technology.
Gazelle chief executive Pierpaolo Mazza said: “In order to unlock the massive offshore wind market, we have to significantly reduce the LCOE while making platforms lighter and easier to assemble.
“BBRG’s unique global experience and advanced offshore rope solution technology was the last critical piece we needed to deploy our unique hybrid dynamic mooring system.
“They bring the technical know-how not only for our pilot plant but will play a key role for our larger – 15MW plus – systems.”
Gazelle says its hybrid attenuated mooring platform splits the “two classical functions” of buoyancy and stability to produce a light, durable, and cost-effective platform that can be deployed in deeper waters further out at sea.
BBRG general manager for synthetic ropes Christof Dewijngaert said: “Floating wind has incredible potential, especially as the world seeks ways to decarbonize and reach regional and world emissions goals.
“Gazelle’s floating wind technology is unlike others we have seen, and combined with our mooring lines, we believe can have a significant impact on the offshore wind industry.”
Gazelle announced in December 2021 that it had signed a MOU with Maersk Supply Service to develop the 2MW PLOCAN pilot plant by Q2 2023.