The DemoSATH floating wind turbine has been operational off the Basque coast since September 2023, offering crucial insights into the challenges associated with floating wind turbines in open sea environments.
In response, Saitec Offshore Technologies, a Spanish engineering firm, in collaboration with global offshore wind leader RWE, has introduced the ‘DemoSATH Lab’ initiative.
This program aims to conduct thorough environmental monitoring studies around the demonstration project, focusing on various environmental impacts, including the effects on bird species, underwater noise emissions, and interactions with marine life. This research will extend through at least the end of 2025, covering a range of seasons and weather conditions.
Statements from Key Personnel
Javier Del Real, Head of Environment and Stakeholder Engagement at Saitec Offshore Technologies, commented: “The insights gained from the DemoSATH Lab will enable Saitec Group to enhance the ecological compatibility of SATH technology and develop floating offshore wind projects that are considerate of the marine ecosystem.”
Martin Dörnhöfer, Director of Floating Wind at RWE Offshore Wind GmbH, added: “As a prominent player in the global offshore wind sector, we are pioneering advancements in floating offshore wind technology.
Through the DemoSATH project, we gain valuable firsthand experience in the deployment and operation of floating offshore wind systems at sea.
The research conducted by DemoSATH Lab will enhance our understanding of key biodiversity aspects, such as underwater noise and bird interactions, helping us ensure future floating offshore wind developments are in harmony with the natural environment.”
Research Focus Areas of DemoSATH Lab
- Bird Interactions: This research will utilize data from the DTBird monitoring system installed at the DemoSATH platform. The study aims to improve understanding of bird interactions with floating offshore wind turbines and their foundations, as well as to refine bird detection module algorithms and their performance.
- Underwater Noise: A comprehensive underwater noise monitoring system has been established for the operational phase of DemoSATH. The collected data will be compared with baseline noise profiles recorded before and during the installation of the demonstrator. This will help evaluate the impact of operational underwater noise from floating wind installations and its effects on the surrounding noise environment throughout the project’s lifetime. Additional information on marine mammal presence and behavior around the structure may also be obtained.
- Marine Ecosystem Biodiversity Monitoring: A remotely operated vehicle (ROV) will be periodically deployed to observe how marine life—including invertebrates, fish, and large marine animals—interacts with the DemoSATH substructure, moorings, anchors, and power cables. This monitoring will provide valuable insights into the presence, abundance, and behavior of various fauna around the floating wind turbine.
Overview of the DemoSATH Platform
The DemoSATH platform is positioned 2 miles off the Basque coast within the Biscay Marine Energy Platform (BiMEP) testing zone at Armintza.
It features a 2 MW turbine, which was installed in September 2023. The platform’s annual output is sufficient to meet the electricity needs of approximately 2,000 Spanish households. This project marks the debut of floating offshore wind technology in Spain’s energy mix.
The commissioning of DemoSATH initiates a two-year operational phase aimed at gathering data on the performance of the ‘Swinging Around Twin Hull’ (SATH) technology developed by Saitec Offshore Technologies.
The success of this project is attributed to the combined efforts of its partners: Saitec Offshore Technologies, which designed the SATH technology; RWE, known for its extensive offshore wind expertise; and Kansai Electric Power Co. Inc. (KEPCO), with its notable experience in the energy market.