Falck Renewables has partnered with BlueFloat Energy to develop floating offshore wind farms off the Italian coast, with the joint venture’s first 1200MW project Kailia Energia off Puglia, Italy.
The equal partnership will look to contribute to the continued growth of renewable energy in Italy as the country works towards the achievement of its 2030 national decarbonization targets.
The development of the Kailia Energia project is estimated to create up to 4000 jobs within the local area.
The project developers will file the necessary documentation with the Ministry for Ecological Transition to start the authorization process for the Kailia Energia floating offshore wind farm, the joint venture have said.
A request for a maritime concession will also be submitted to the Ministry of Infrastructure and the Port Authority of the Southern Adriatic Sea.
The developers said they have embarked on a series of local stakeholder meetings to build a process of consultation and dialogue on the project proposals, that will continue throughout the entire process of project development.
Falck renewables and BlueFloat Energy have also said that preliminary analysis is underway for a second floating offshore project to be located in the same area.
Falck Renewables chief executive officer Toni Volpe said: “Today we are bringing the floating offshore wind technology to Italy, demonstrating our commitment to achieving sustainable goals through the implementation of innovative technologies.
“This project is the result of an important work carried out in recent months by the partnership, and that has also involved local stakeholders in a process of dialogue and shared development with communities and territories.”
BlueFloat Energy chief executive officer Carlos Martin said: “As a global offshore wind developer with a unique floating wind expertise we are keen to contribute towards a development of this sector in Italy.
“Our recent experience of developing a floating wind project in Spain with Parc Tramuntana provides us with valuable insights into the unique challenges of developing this type of projects in the Mediterranean region.
“We are now approaching the Italian market with a partner with complementary strengths and skills to deliver a world-class project that will enable energy transition in the region.”