Floating Wind
The Benefits of Offshore Wind
Floating wind will contribute to the UK’s energy security and is critical to meeting net-zero emission targets.
Traditional fixed offshore wind turbines are restricted to waters up to 80 metres deep. Combining the tried and tested technology of offshore platforms and wind turbines we can now move into deeper waters with higher and more consistent wind speeds.
Floating foundations can be used at deep depths and consist of a balanced floating substructure moored to the seabed with anchors. The substructure may be stabilised using buoyancy, mooring lines, or a ballast. Several designs for floating offshore wind substructures currently exist for various depth ranges, including barges, semi-submersibles and tension leg platforms.
Technology selection
We are currently analysing which floating offshore wind platform technology and design is best suited to our project. The Gwynt Glas team is focused on being flexible and agile to adapt to the continuously evolving offshore wind development, technology and policy landscape. We are also committed to working with stakeholders and local communities to listen to their feedback.
How offshore floating wind farms work
Foundations can be built onshore and installation of the turbine can take place in sheltered waters, before being towed out to sea for connection.
An array of floating platform substructures offshore are connected to one another via inter-array cables, which transport electricity generated from the turbine to fixed offshore substations. Export cables transport the energy to shore, connecting to the grid and powering homes.
EDF power solutions is a leader in floating offshore wind technology
EDF power solutions has built Provence Grand Large, France’s first floating offshore wind farm. This video shows how the technology works.
Benefits of Offshore Wind
Green Energy
Generating clean, green renewable power from an untapped wind resource in the Celtic Sea.
Reduced CO2 emissions
Floating wind will directly contribute to the UK and Welsh governments’ net zero targets.
Job Creation & Economic Benefit
Gwynt Glas is commited to creating lasting social value by investing in local communities, supporting skills development and creating sustainable job opportunities in Wales and the South West of England.
Environmental
Floating offshore wind farms take advantage of consistent and stronger wind with less visual impact for communities on land, whilst reducing our reliance on harmful fossil fuels.
Security of Energy Supply
Developing home grown green energy means that we can increase our own energy supplies and reduce our reliance on global energy sources. This will also help to stabilise prices and reduce costs.
Well-Being of Future Generations Act
Contributes to the ‘Prosperous’ Goal in Wales’ Well-being of Future Generations Act – an innovative, productive and low carbon society.
Education
Education opportunities in local communities to develop a skilled local workforce.
