Swedish outfit Hexicon is to develop a floating offshore wind demonstrator project at the Norwegian Marine Energy Test Centre’s (Metcentre’s) deep water site off the coast of Norway.
The TwinWay pilot is aimed at commercialising new offshore floating wind technology, the company said.
Hexicon has signed a conditional site exclusivity agreement with Metcentre for a reservation of 6MW.
“The intention of the TwinWay project is to show proof of concept for Hexicon ́s floating wind foundation through twin wind-turbines pilot unit designed for, installed, and operated at Metcentre,” Hexicon said.
Hexicon chief executive Marcus Thor said: “This is not only a great opportunity to demonstrate Hexicon’s patented technology and capability in project development, but foremost an important step for the floating wind sector.
“With this project we can demonstrate the clear benefits with offshore floating wind compared to onshore as well as bottom fixed offshore wind power, and how it is set to become a highly relevant part of the future renewable energy mix.”
The test area is located off of Norway’s southern coast and Metcentre has applied for consent for a new larger capacity of 85MW, expected to be granted in 2021.