X1 Wind installs floating wind platform

Barcelona-based X1 Wind said a suitable weather window allowed the company, along with partners from the EU-backed PivotBuoy Project, to complete the installation process, connecting the fully-functional floating wind prototype to the mooring system and existing dynamic cable.

In a statement, Jorge Casanovas, X1 Wind operations manager, said: “As installation work comes to a close another exciting chapter begins for X1 Wind as we prepare for operations to deliver first power to the PLOCAN smartgrid.

“We are especially thankful to those partners and suppliers that have played an instrumental role in the final installation phase, developing a ground-breaking mooring, connection and installation solution for our X30 prototype. Now successfully installed, we will begin monitoring the platform in real-time with multiple sensors integrated within our in-house SCADA system.”

The X30 platform is said to have been developed with design features to streamline installation, including a lightweight and stable floater which can be wet towed by local vessels. The PivotBuoy Project is focused on demonstrating a mooring system configuration that combines the advantages of a SPM (single point mooring) with a small TLP (Tension-Leg Platform) mooring system, allowing the ability to reach deeper waters while minimising the footprint and impact on the seabed.