ABOUT
TAILWIND contributes to a more efficient use of the marine space, by developing innovations based on a “sustainability-by-design” principle, which means developing low-impact technologies by considering economic, societal, and environmental impacts right from the design phase.
Sustainable impacts
The TAILWIND approach reduces conflicts with sea users promoting more sustainable fishing practices and marine biodiversity.
Shared anchors, which are suitable for semisubmersibles and tension leg buoys, significantly reduce the minimum number of anchor points needed, thereby minimising the seabed disturbance. On the other hand, anchoring technology for tension leg platforms reduces the footprint of floating turbines and thereby the impact on fishing zones. Optimised synthetic mooring line systems further shrink wind farm footprints.
The anchor technologies include low-noise anchor installation methods such as suction-assisted technologies for single or cluster caissons. These methods aim to reduce the impacts on the sea environment, supporting a more sustainable approach toward marine fauna. Clustered anchor configurations foresee alternative installation methods, emphasising reusability and recyclable fibre rope materials in line with circular economy principles. Environmental impact studies ensure compliance with pollution prevention and biodiversity conservation standards.
Socio-economic impacts
TAILWIND supports coastal regions previously impacted by shipbuilding decline, which will benefit from redirecting infrastructure towards offshore wind.
The project focuses on innovative technologies to minimise the environmental impact of offshore wind farm construction and costs, aligning with the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, by addressing the skill gaps of local companies in the marine industry.
LATEST UPDATE
Open data for floating wind: four EU projects, one mission
Tune in on September 17 and discover how open-access data can support floating offshore wind research, engineering and industry uptake
TAILWIND joins new European wind innovation hub
The Wind Innovation Cluster Hub brings TAILWIND to strengthen the visibility of EU-funded wind research and create new opportunities for collaboration
TAILWIND newsletter four is here!
TAILWIND’s fourth newsletter spotlights our latest factsheet and recent joint activities, while looking ahead to the upcoming events
