Floating wind energy gains momentum with PAREF project of Technip Energies and partners

Technip Energies (PARIS: TE), in collaboration with Université Gustave Eiffel, Valeco, and OPEN-C Foundation, is spearheading the PAREF project, an R&D program funded by the French State under the France 2030 initiative, operated by ADEME. This project aims to accelerate the industrial-scale development of floating wind by designing, fabricating, and testing a reusable anchoring system, high and low connectors, and tendons for a tension line system. It focuses on minimizing the impact on the marine environment under real offshore conditions.

The significance of the PAREF project extends to its role as the anchoring system for the NextFloat project. Selected by the European Commission in 2022, this consortium, which includes Technip Energies and X1 Wind among 10 international entities, will utilize X1 Wind’s innovative floating wind technology. This technology features a lighter floater design that requires less steel and a compact mooring system, reducing seabed impact. The 6MW prototype is set to be deployed at a test site in the Mediterranean Sea, showcasing its capability in open-sea operational conditions.

Jacques Vendé, Project Manager at Technip Energies, expressed enthusiasm about the selection: “We are thrilled to be selected for the PAREF project and to play a role in France’s ambition to lead the way in decarbonized and cutting-edge renewable energy technologies, as outlined in the France 2030 plan. This project represents a significant opportunity to advance the development of sustainable energy solutions and support France’s green industry vision.”

Christelle Abadie, Research Fellow at Université Gustave Eiffel, emphasized the collaborative efforts: “We are excited to contribute our expertise in experimental testing and analysis to the PAREF project. This initiative aligns perfectly with our ongoing activities and ambition to advance the understanding of anchor design for the floating wind energy sector.”

Pauline Bertrand, Director of Valeco’s Offshore Division, highlighted the environmental aspects: “The PAREF project is also an innovative approach to environmental monitoring. Environmental DNA is a new way of collecting data that can be replicated for any offshore project, and we felt it was necessary to test the methodology. Our participation in the PAREF project will increase our knowledge of the marine environment and the species attracted by the floaters.”

Bertrand Alessandrini, Managing Director of the OPEN-C Foundation, commented on the project’s broader goals: “Hosting the PAREF project is at the core of the Foundation’s mission: test and derisk new technologies to accelerate innovation. It is essential to work together to face the climate emergency and deliver French and European ambitions in terms of Marine Renewable energies.”

With its comprehensive approach to innovation and environmental conservation, the PAREF project is setting new standards in the renewable energy industry, making it a key player in achieving a sustainable future.