AquaWind – An Innovative Multi-Use Prototype Integrating Offshore Renewable Energy and Sustainable Aquaculture in the Atlantic Basin
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Successful Launch of AquaWind’s Multi-Use (MU) Prototype: A Milestone in Offshore Multipurpose Innovation
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Following months of development, the AquaWind project has reached a major achievement with the successful deployment of its innovative multi-use prototype at the Canary Islands Oceanic Platform (PLOCAN), on the 2nd of June. This pioneering initiative marks the first time integration of a floating dual-turbine offshore wind platform (W2Power, by EnerOcean) with state-of-the-art aquaculture cage, developed by the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC), equipped with copper alloy nets and remote monitoring systems.
Prior to its offshore installation, the system underwent extensive testing at the port of Taliarte in Gran Canaria, Spain. During this phase, AquaWind researchers monitored the growth and health of fish in the experimental cage over a 40-day period, benchmarking performance against traditional aquaculture methods.
With the prototype now installed at sea, the project enters a significant phase of real-world evaluation. In the coming months, experts will assess the system’s operational performance, the well-being of key aquaculture species such as gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) and greater amberjack (Seriola dumerilii), and the environmental impact of this co-location approach. Additionally, the effectiveness of biofouling control strategies will be closely examined to ensure long-term operational efficiency.
Could this model transform marine space usage and the blue economy? AquaWind is laying the foundation for a more integrated, efficient and sustainable approach of marine resource management, aligning with EU climate goals and paving the way for future commercial-scale applications.
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Set-up and testing of the AquaWind aquaculture cage prototype
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In recent months, the ECOAQUA research group at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria worked to assess the performance of the AquaWind newly developed aquaculture cage prototype, specifically engineered for integration with the W2Power offshore renewable energy platform. The experimental cage features copper alloy netting and is equipped with advanced remote monitoring systems, enabling real-time observation of environmental parameters and fish welfare.
The testing phase took place at the port of Taliarte, Gran Canaria, home to ULPGC's aquaculture research and innovation facilities. The trials focused on rearing Sparus aurata (sea bream), one of the most widely farmed marine species. Over a period exceeding 40 days, researchers monitored fish growth, biochemical indicators, and general health status within the AquaWind cage prototype, benchmarking results against those obtained from traditional aquaculture cages.
This study constituted a key preparatory phase in the integration of AquaWind's aquaculture innovation with the W2Power system, ensuring the cage's performance under controlled conditions prior to its deployment in offshore environments for full-scale demonstrations.
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First Sampling Campaign at PLOCAN: Assessing the Environmental Impact of the AquaWind Multi-Use Prototype
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In January 2025, the AquaWind consortium conducted its first marine environmental campaign at the offshore test site of the Oceanic Platform of Canary Islands (PLOCAN), in preparation for the deployment of the MU prototype. The campaign included environmental monitoring, underwater noise measurements, and water and sediment sampling. These data will contribute to the Environmental Impact Assessment of the AquaWind prototype that will be released at the end of the project. A follow-up in-situ survey is scheduled in spring 2025, following the installation and the operation of the prototype.
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AquaWind Highlights the Role of Women in Science and Innovation on the International Day of Women and Girls in Science
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On the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, AquaWind proudly celebrates the contributions of women driving innovation in renewable energy and offshore aquaculture within the project. Their expertise in project management, technology development and environmental monitoring is fundamental to the success of this pioneering initiative. From strategic planning to overseeing offshore trials, these professionals are shaping more sustainable and inclusive future. Discover the women behind AquaWind and learn more about their impact in the full story.
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AquaWind: A Success Story Highlighted by the European Commission’s Atlantic Strategy
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The AquaWind project has been highlighted as a success story in maritime innovation by the European Commission's Atlantic Strategy. This acknowledgement highlights AquaWind's potential to transform the maritime through the integration of offshore renewables and aquaculture within a multi-purpose solution. With significant technological advancements and a strong commitment to sustainability, the project continues to lead the way towards a scalable model in the Atlantic. Learn more about this recognition and AquaWind's next steps in the full story.
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AquaWind participated in the kick-off meeting of BlueSupplyChain, a new project led by FEDEPORT and funded under the Interreg MAC 2021-2027 programme. The event, held in Gran Canaria on 29 January 2025, focused on the opportunities and challenges of offshore wind energy in the Macaronesian region. The discussion highlighted the strong synergies between both initiatives in promoting the efficient and sustainable use use of maritime space.
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ACIISI visits the MaREI Centre in Ireland to boost blue innovation
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As part of the European AquaWind project, ACIISI visited the MaREI Centre in Cork, Ireland, to strengthen synergies in innovation and sustainability in the field of offshore energy on May 21
The technical exchange marked a key step in fostering collaboration between Atlantic regions and developing joint solutions for the coexistence of offshore wind energy and aquaculture.
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Over the past few months, the AquaWind project has participated in a number of key events that have been fundamental to its progress.
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On November 7 and 8 2024, AquaWind takes part in the Offshore Wind Congress in Cádiz, showcasing innovation at the intersection of offshore wind and aquaculture.
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On December 3 2024, AquaWind stood out at the Wavec Seminar 2024 in Lisbon, reinforcing its commitment to innovation in sustainable marine energy.
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A Smart Specialisation Strategy, the extended RIS3, for the Blue Economy of the Canary Islands
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On December 9 2024, AquaWind took part in the event on the extended RIS3 Strategy for the Canary Islands’ Blue Economy, highlighting innovation and sustainability.
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Navigating the Energy Transition: Strategic Goals for Resilient and Sustainable Aquaculture workshop
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On February 19, AquaWind showcased its innovative integration of floating wind energy and aquaculture for a sustainable energy transition in Brussels.
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Conference on coactivity in offshore wind farms at the Technical University of Denmark
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On March 19, Laura Suárez spoke at DTU’s Master’s programme about coactivity between offshore wind energy and sustainable fisheries within the AquaWind project
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On 28 March, AquaWind coordinator Javier Roo showcased the project’s innovative floating platform combining offshore wind and aquaculture at the Turquois X Summit in the Canary Islands.
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European Maritimes Days 2025
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AquaWind stands out at the European Maritime Days 2025 as a European example of offshore wind and aquaculture integration.
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AquaWind Showcase Event and Fimar 2025
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The AquaWind Showcase Event was held as part of the European Maritime Days in My Country, where the project was presented to key stakeholders to explore investment opportunities and future commercialization pathways. The day concluded with AquaWind’s public presentation at FIMAR 2025, bringing the project’s innovation closer to society.
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Co-funded by the European Union under Grant Agreement No 101077600. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
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