Port of Setúbal works with RWE to become floating wind logistics hub

Energy company RWE is collaborating with the Port Authority of Setúbal in Portugal to support infrastructure enhancements required for the development of floating offshore wind.

A Letter of Support has been signed between the parties to explore the Port's potential to become an industrial hub for the assembly and deployment of key components for large-scale floating offshore wind projects.

RWE said in a statement that the collaboration will help harness and develop Portugal's floating wind market and also potentially tap into industrial synergies in international markets.

Álvaro de Miguel, country lead Portugal at RWE Offshore Wind commented on the announcement: “Portugal is well-positioned to become a key market in the floating offshore wind sector...Enhancing port capacity and supply chains is crucial for the successful deployment of commercial-scale projects. This will create opportunities to attract investment, spur growth, and generate skilled employment. RWE is actively exploring opportunities and looks forward to the next steps for floating offshore wind development in Portugal.”

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Carlos Correia, chairman of the Board at Port Authority of Setúbal stated that the partnership aligned with the Port's development strategy and would aid in transforming it into a hub for projects developing biofuels, offshore wind, bio-industry, sustainable ship repair, etc.

Said Correia: "Our port is suitable for the marshalling, assembly and deployment of main components, like floating substructures and mooring systems. We are well positioned to cover the future needs of the growing floating wind industry.”

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In 2023 renewables contributed 71% of Portugal’s electricity generation, and over 5 days, from 31 October to 6 November, Portugal produced more electricity than it needed, entirely from renewable sources.

Portugal currently has only one small offshore wind farm: WindFloat Atlantic, a 25 MW floating wind pilot project. However, the country aims to take advantage of is abundant coastal wind resources with more offshore wind.

It launched the initial phase for the first offshore wind auction in November 2023. The aim was to secure 3.5GW of capacity – mostly floating wind.