Pioneering Mitsubishi Research Array Looks to Blaze Trail for US Floating Wind in Gulf of Maine

Introduction

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has announced plans to deploy a pioneering research array in the Gulf of Maine, marking a significant step forward for the development of floating wind energy in the United States. The project, which is expected to be operational by 2025, aims to demonstrate the feasibility of floating wind turbines in the region and pave the way for commercial-scale deployment.

Background

The Gulf of Maine, located off the coast of New England, offers significant potential for offshore wind energy development. However, the water depth in the region is too great for traditional fixed-bottom wind turbines, making floating wind technology a necessary innovation. MHI’s research array will be the first of its kind in the US, building on the company’s extensive experience in floating wind technology.

Array Design and Technology

The research array will consist of three 2-megawatt wind turbines, each mounted on a floating foundation designed by MHI. The turbines will be installed at a water depth of approximately 100 meters, and will be connected to the grid via a subsea cable. The array will be designed to operate in harsh marine environments, withstanding strong winds, waves, and currents.

Key Features

* Three 2-megawatt wind turbines
* Floating foundations designed by MHI
* Water depth of approximately 100 meters
* Subsea cable connection to the grid
* Designed to operate in harsh marine environments

Benefits and Implications

The successful deployment of MHI’s research array will have significant implications for the development of floating wind energy in the US. The project will:

* Demonstrate the feasibility of floating wind technology in the Gulf of Maine
* Provide valuable data on the performance and reliability of floating wind turbines
* Inform the design and development of commercial-scale floating wind farms
* Support the growth of the US offshore wind industry

Commercial-Scale Deployment

The success of MHI’s research array will pave the way for commercial-scale deployment of floating wind energy in the Gulf of Maine. The project will help to establish the region as a hub for offshore wind energy development, creating jobs and stimulating local economies.

Conclusion

MHI’s pioneering research array in the Gulf of Maine marks an important milestone in the development of floating wind energy in the US. The project will demonstrate the feasibility of this technology and pave the way for commercial-scale deployment, supporting the growth of the US offshore wind industry and helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

FAQs

Q: What is the purpose of MHI’s research array?

A: The purpose of MHI’s research array is to demonstrate the feasibility of floating wind technology in the Gulf of Maine and pave the way for commercial-scale deployment.

Q: How many wind turbines will be installed in the array?

A: Three 2-megawatt wind turbines will be installed in the array.

Q: What is the water depth of the array?

A: The array will be installed at a water depth of approximately 100 meters.

Q: When is the array expected to be operational?

A: The array is expected to be operational by 2025.

Q: What are the implications of the project for the US offshore wind industry?

A: The project will demonstrate the feasibility of floating wind technology in the US, provide valuable data on the performance and reliability of floating wind turbines, and inform the design and development of commercial-scale floating wind farms, supporting the growth of the US offshore wind industry.