Gazelle Wind Power has obtained a 10-year TUPEM authorization to develop its Nau Azul floating wind project, a 2 MW demonstrator in deepwater off the coast of Aguçadoura, Portugal. The permit, granted by the Directorate General of Natural Resources, Safety and Maritime Services (DGRM), grants the exclusive right to use an area of national maritime space to test its state-of-the-art floating platform .
Keys to Gazelle’s floating wind project
The objective of this project is to validate Gazelle’s lightweight, modular technology, which reduces the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and facilitates deployment from shallow ports. This initiative reinforces Portugal’s role as a pioneer in offshore wind energy by leveraging a site that previously hosted the iconic WindFloat 1.
Gazelle’s patented platform stands out for its geometry and counterweight system , which minimize steel usage, thereby reducing CAPEX and simplifying its industrialization. The compact design easily adapts to port and logistical constraints, contributing to its commercial viability.
In addition, the project will generate direct benefits for the local economy of Viana do Castelo through skilled jobs in manufacturing, assembly, marine operations and maintenance .
Collaboration with academic institutions
Gazelle actively collaborates with educational and scientific organizations such as the Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo (IPVC), INESCTEC, and INESCTEC.OCEAN. This synergy seeks to strengthen the scientific foundation of the floating wind energy sector and open up new opportunities for training and innovation.
With the implementation of environmental monitoring and preparations for connecting the demonstrator to the power grid, Gazelle is positioning itself as a global leader in offshore solutions . The Nau Azul project represents a replicable model that can be adopted in other international markets with deepwater wind potential.
Follow us on social media and don’t miss any of our posts!
YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok
Source and photo: Gazelle Wind Power
