The CTC Technology Centre continues to strengthen its reputation as an innovative entity that is fully accredited to engage in projects related to floating wind energy. The expertise of its research team, the unique capabilities of laboratories such as MCTS El Bocal and the successes of major projects like MooringSense solidify CTC’s credentials in the wind energy sector—a sector projected to produce 35% of Europe’s total electricity consumption by 2030.
Internationally recognised companies such as Nabla Wind Hub and Saitec Offshore have expressed interest in partnering with the CTC on various medium and long-term projects. At WindEurope, a leading industry event that attracted 12,000 professionals from 80 countries to Bilbao, the CTC showcased its capabilities in managing and operating infrastructures, as well as in initiatives aimed at extending the service life of wind turbines and their components.
Increasing the durability of materials subjected to the harsh conditions of the marine environment is a crucial factor in advancing floating wind energy. In this regard, Nabla Wind Hub collaborates with the CTC to develop methods for extending the structural integrity of components. The SEACOREL project is particularly notable as it enables the CTC to enhance its capabilities in detecting marine corrosion through the deployment of sensors at MCTS El Bocal. This initiative is significantly appealing to international companies considering partnerships with the Cantabrian Centre.
The achievements of the European MooringSense project have not gone unnoticed by companies involved in installing or managing floating offshore wind turbines. This research, one of the most significant undertaken by the CTC to date, has proven effective in monitoring the structural health of wind platform mooring systems, which represents a paradigm shift that not only reduces operating costs and extends anchor life but also lays the foundation for increased annual energy production.
Saitec Offshore, along with the CTC and seven other international entities, is a member of the MooringSense consortium and is exploring various alternatives for deploying and operating its first operational prototype. In this mission, technologies such as the Smart Sensor registered by the CTC could prove highly beneficial.
Manuel Odriozola and Verónica González de Lena, Business Development Director and Manager of the Industry and Energy area at the CTC, respectively, have engaged with some of the leading companies in the manufacture and application of coatings. These organisations have expressed significant interest in the development of new formulations that would endow materials with anti-corrosion, anti-fouling or electrically conductive properties.
