Context and Overall Objectives
Europe’s goal of climate neutrality by 2050 requires rapid expansion of renewable energy, with floating offshore wind turbines (FWTs) offering a scalable solution due to higher offshore wind and minimal land use. However, current FWT technologies face challenges in cost, reliability, sustainability, and environmental impact.
MADE4WIND addresses these issues by developing innovative, circular, and cost-effective solutions for next-generation 15 MW floating wind turbines. Aligned with the European Green Deal and Horizon Europe priorities, the project strengthens the EU industrial base, reduces reliance on critical raw materials, and supports local job creation.
The project focuses on these key areas:
Blade design: Lightweight, modular blades using recyclable composites and toughening materials to reduce mass and improve performance.
Substructure and anchoring: Circular concrete mixes and aluminium rebar for durable, low-impact floaters and anchors.
Drivetrain: Compact, modular systems with reduced rare earth use and enhanced reliability through predictive maintenance.
System integration: Advanced simulation tools (SIMA, OpenFAST, WRF-LES) to optimize turbine and farm performance, including LCoE and environmental impacts.
Circularity and sustainability: Blade recycling technologies with over 60% material reuse and integrated sustainability assessments.
Pathway to Impact
MADE4WIND delivers measurable benefits across key domains:
Environmental: Lower CO2 emissions via sustainable materials and corrosion-free designs.
Economic: Reduced LCoE and OPEX, improved turbine design with reduced materials, reduced material consumption, and scalable deployment.
Industrial: Strengthened EU manufacturing and reduced raw material dependency.
Social: Job creation towards wind energy sector
Role of Social Sciences and Humanities: While technically focused, the project integrates social sciences in its exploitation strategy, stakeholder engagement, and training design. WP7 ensures alignment with market needs and policy frameworks, while promoting gender inclusivity and open science principles for equitable innovation.
