- The WindFloat Atlantic project has generated 320GWh of energy over its four years of operation, providing clean energy to 25,000 Portuguese households each year.
- WindFloat Atlantic exemplifies how project’s success transcends mere technological innovation, representing a legacy rooted in a steadfast commitment to citizens, present and future generations of the workforce, the fishing industry, and environmental commitment.
5th September, Viana do Castelo – Ocean Winds (OW), international company dedicated to offshore wind energy and created as a 50-50 joint venture in 2020 by EDP Renewables and ENGIE and majority shareholder of WindFloat Atlantic, announces that after four years of successful operation, the WindFloat Atlantic project has not only exceeded expected numbers but has also fostered a strong alliance within the region.
Since July 2020, the project’s three turbines have been supplying power to the Portuguese national grid, showcasing the potential of floating wind technology and each January, it has been reported with pride that the project’s electricity production has steadily increased, reaching 78 GWh in 2022 and 80 GWh in 2023. In July 2024, it recorded a total cumulative production of 320GWh, providing power each year to over 25,000 households in Viana do Castelo, while preventing more than 33.000 tons of CO2 emissions and creating 1,500 direct and indirect jobs. This consistent growth highlights that the project has consistently exceeded expectations and underscores its role in marking the beginning of a sustainable and green future, while also emphasizing a strong commitment to the local community and environmental protection.
Over its 4 years in operations, WindFloat Atlantic has successfully navigated unprecedented challenges. Notably, in 2023, during Storm Ciaran, the system withstood waves reaching 20 meters in height and wind gusts of up to 139 kilometers per hour, demonstrating its resilience and robustness.
In alignment with its goals, Ocean Winds (OW) remains deeply committed to monitoring and enhancing the environmental performance of the WindFloat Atlantic wind farm throughout its lifecycle. The project has been shown to have minimal impact on the seabed and biodiversity, as evidenced by ongoing surveys identifying over 270 species successfully coexisting with the project and with no significant adverse effects on marine mammals or endangered bird species. Additionally, surveys show that the floating structures have fostered marine life, contributing to a conservation and reef effect underwater.
On this fourth anniversary, Ocean Winds (OW) reaffirmed its dedication to the local community by appointing Pedro Afonso, an internationally recognized kitesurfer from Viana do Castelo, as its first ambassador. Afonso will advocate for offshore wind energy and its benefits both within the city and on a global scale.
Jose Miguel Moreira Pinheiro, Project Director of WindFloat Atlantic, commented “We are proud to see that our project progresses each year toward having a more positive impact. At OW, we are deeply committed to ensuring that our project benefits not only the environment but also the community. This commitment is reflected in our development of educational programs, coordination of visits, and engagement with the local community in Viana, ensuring that they actively participate in this local initiative with international significance.”
