BlueFloat Energy Announces Participation in Taiwan's First "Winds of September" Floating Wind Demonstration Project Auction and Signed an Agreement with MIRDC

BlueFloat Energy (hereinafter referred to as BlueFloat) officially announced yesterday (7th) the site selection for the "Winds of September Offshore Wind Project Phase I." The company indicated its intention to participate in the Taiwan government's floating wind farm demonstration project selection, expected to start by the end of the year. BlueFloat signed an agreement with the Metal Industries Research & Development Centre (MIRDC) to collaborate on the "Analysis of Taiwan's Local Supply Chain Capacity for Floating Offshore Wind Mooring and Anchoring Systems," reaffirming its commitment to establishing Taiwan's first floating wind farm.

The "Winds of September Offshore Wind Project Phase I" is located approximately 23 kilometers off the coast of Hsinchu City. Development began in 2021, and the project is expected to install up to 12 floating platforms with a capacity of 180 MW. Since March 2023, BlueFloat has been conducting Floating LiDAR measurements and energy yield assessments with the assistance of Hsinchu District Fishermen's Association's patrol vessels. The company has also conducted comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) and geophysical surveys to ensure the optimal layout design for Winds of September Phase I and has closely collaborated with local communities and stakeholders.

Location of Winds of September wind farm
(Source: BlueFloat Energy)

Michael Pinkerton, Country Manager at BlueFloat Energy, stated: "With the results of Taiwan's offshore wind 3-2 zonal development auction, Taiwan is entering the era of floating wind power. However, timing is crucial for successful development. Announcing the feed-in tariff and selection rules in the third to fourth quarters of 2024 will give developers the opportunity to conduct marine surveys during the 2025 weather window, enabling a commercial operation date (COD) by 2030."

Lin Ren-Yi, Chairman of MIRDC, said: "Our partnership with BlueFloat Energy focuses on evaluating the capabilities of Taiwan's first- and second-tier suppliers in key components of floating wind power, paving the way for local manufacturers to further participate in the floating wind power supply chain."

The collaboration with MIRDC emphasizes the continuity between the demonstration planning and commercial phases. BlueFloat Energy will leverage MIRDC's expertise and experience, combined with its international knowledge, to identify and develop Taiwan's local supply chain potential for floating technology from the demonstration planning stage. This cooperation also lays the foundation for the "Winds of September Offshore Wind Project Phase II," supporting Taiwan in achieving its offshore wind power policy goals by 2035.