European Union regulators have given the green light to a Portuguese ocean energy technology scheme, according to the EU's press release Thursday.
The scheme is set to support projects producing energy from ocean waves and tides with the aim of boosting renewable energy goals in the European Union in line with EU state aid rules.
The plan, with a target of 50 megawatts of installed capacity, will initially test floating offshore wind turbines in real operating conditions in the north Atlantic ocean.
Currently the 'Windfloat project' is operating to produce its first 25 MW of capacity power. The remaining 25 MW production will be open to tender at the end of the year.
This project will test offshore wind turbines on a floating platform to allow for the deployment of technology in deep waters instead of columns fixed to the seabed as is the case with conventional offshore technology.
Portuguese authorities will offer a feed-in tariff for 25 years to offset the high cost of the new technology. The European Commission emphasized that the project would further EU energy and environmental objectives without unduly distorting competition in the single market.
By Gulsen Cagatay
Anadolu Agency
gulsen.cagatay@aa.com.tr