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Stiesdal has commenced production of its first TetraSub floating wind foundation, a semi-submersible design optimized for water depths between 50 and 200 meters.
This development follows the successful four-year operation of the TetraSpar Demonstrator, which achieved high availability and a 63% capacity factor, validating Stiesdal's modular approach.
The TetraSub is specifically designed to address the growing market for floating offshore wind in shallower waters, extending the feasibility of offshore wind beyond traditional fixed-bottom limits.
Pentland Floating Offshore Wind Farm has already selected TetraSub technology for its 100 MW project, underscoring its market readiness and industry confidence.
Norwegian energy technology developer Stiesdal has commenced production of its inaugural TetraSub floating wind foundation, marking a significant step in expanding floating offshore wind capabilities into shallower waters. This semi-submersible design, optimized for depths ranging from 50 to 200 meters, aims to bridge the gap between traditional fixed-bottom installations and deeper water floating projects, addressing a critical segment of the burgeoning offshore wind market. The move follows the highly successful operational performance of Stiesdal's pioneering TetraSpar Demonstrator.
Four years after its installation at the METCentre test site off Karmøy, Norway, the 4 MW TetraSpar Demonstrator has consistently delivered robust operational data. Stiesdal reported an impressive availability of 99.5% in 2024, coupled with a capacity factor of nearly 63%, demonstrating the efficacy and reliability of the company's modular foundation concept. This proven track record provides a strong foundation for the commercialization of its next-generation designs.
The TetraSub, which received DNV's Statement of Feasibility in 2021, represents Stiesdal's strategic response to the evolving offshore wind landscape. While the TetraSpar is suited for depths of 120 meters and above, the TetraSub targets the substantial market segment expected to develop in relatively shallower waters (50-200 meters) through 2030. This approach allows floating technology to extend the economic and technical viability of offshore wind beyond the typical 50-60 meter maximum depth for fixed-bottom structures, unlocking new development zones.
The technology's market readiness is further underscored by its selection by the Pentland Floating Offshore Wind Farm (PFOWF) consortium for its 100 MW project. This significant endorsement highlights the industry's confidence in TetraSub's potential to facilitate large-scale floating wind deployments. By offering a versatile solution for varying water depths, Stiesdal is positioning itself to capture a substantial share of the global floating offshore wind market, which is projected for rapid expansion as nations seek to harness wind resources in deeper coastal areas.