Ocergy, Inc. has launched a pilot project to install a floating wind turbine exceeding 15 megawatts (MW) by 2028, collaborating with EnBW, Kyuden Mirai, and TEPCO Renewable Power. This initiative, named the Reduced Commercial Risks with Demo of 15+ MW (RECORD15) project, aims to validate the performance of Ocergy’s innovative OCG-Wind™ platform under real-world conditions.
The RECORD15 project will focus on demonstrating the technical and economic viability of large-scale production and assembly of next-generation offshore wind turbines. Ocergy’s OCG-Wind™ platform is designed with a modular structure, allowing for mass production using prefabricated steel sub-assemblies that can integrate with existing infrastructure.
The design features a ‘stiff-stiff’ approach in its tower construction, which aims to tackle the challenges of deploying large turbines on floating foundations. This flexibility will ensure compatibility with various turbine manufacturers, making it easier to adapt to technological advancements in the industry.
Data collection will occur during the operational phase, where performance metrics from the floating turbine will inform maintenance practices for future installations. This data will also support financial modeling to assess risk and profitability, thereby increasing investor confidence in upcoming projects.
Additionally, independent certification will be sought for the pilot, which will address financial and operational risks associated with deploying high-capacity floating turbines. This step is critical for facilitating acceptance within global energy markets.
The RECORD15 project also targets the establishment of a robust supply chain to expedite the industrialization of floating wind technology. By preparing logistics in advance, future developers will be better equipped to launch their commercial projects successfully. This initiative could create a significant impact on the scalability of floating wind turbine technology in Europe and Asia, driving industrial progress in this emerging sector.
