In the cold waters northwest of Bergen, Norway, innovative technology is being established, with the installation of a floating multi-rotor turbine demonstrator, known as the “ Wind Catching Demonstrator ”, which aims to be a more efficient and cost-effective solution for offshore wind power generation.
The “wind turbine wall” project
This proposal relies on a “wall” of multiple small rotors mounted on a floating platform. With a total of 40 1 MW turbines, the system is designed to capture 2.5 times more energy per square metre than conventional models. In addition, this approach seeks to reduce maintenance costs by allowing individual rotor replacement, eliminating the need for specialised cranes and improving operational efficiency.
The project has received a major boost: 1.2 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately $107 million) from Enova , a technology incubator backed by Norway’s Ministry of Climate and Environment. This investment is part of a national strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve a land allocation aimed at generating 30 GW of floating offshore wind power by 2040.
With an estimated annual output of 99 GWh, the Wind Catching Demonstrator aims to accelerate the transition to clean energy and establish Norway as a leader in renewable energy. “ 80% of the world’s offshore wind potential is in deep water, and Norway is ideally suited to developing these solutions due to its unique wind conditions ,” says Oskar Gärdeman, Senior Advisor for Floating Offshore Wind at Enova .
In addition to its environmental impact, the project could stimulate the local economy by creating jobs and fostering collaboration between sectors such as oil and clean energy. ” Norway has the experience to lead growing international markets ,” says Terje Aasland, Minister of Energy. These initiatives are also aligned with the government’s commitment to create renewable energy infrastructure that is competitive and accessible.
If the Wind Catching Demonstrator meets its objectives, it will reduce generation and maintenance costs, and create conditions for a faster and cheaper global deployment of floating wind farms .
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Source and photos: Enova
