World's first 16MW floating wind platform begins operations in China

China has commissioned the world's first 16-megawatt tension-leg floating wind platform, marking a major milestone in offshore renewable energy development.

The platform, known as Haiyou Anlan, has been connected to the power grid serving the Lufeng oilfield in the South China Sea, according to operator China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC).

The project showcases China's advancements in floating wind technology and is expected to support the expansion of offshore wind generation into deeper waters where conventional fixed-bottom turbines are not practical.

Located about 136 kilometres offshore in waters 136 metres deep, the platform is fitted with a 16MW wind turbine and is engineered to withstand severe weather, including Category 17 typhoons. It has an expected operational lifespan of 25 years.

Electricity generated by the platform is transmitted to the Lufeng oilfield through a 4.3-kilometre subsea cable. The facility also uses a hybrid power system that combines wind energy, conventional fuel generation and energy storage to ensure a stable electricity supply despite fluctuations in wind conditions.

Once fully operational, the platform is expected to generate around 54 million kilowatt-hours of renewable electricity annually, reducing fuel consumption by an estimated 15,000 cubic metres and cutting carbon dioxide emissions by about 35,000 tonnes each year.