The project involves the deployment of WEC Penguin technology at the Biscay Marine Energy Platform test area, an open sea marked zone dedicated to supporting research and technical testing of prototype floating marine renewable energy devices. BiMEP is situated in the Cantabrian Sea off the coast at Armintza.
Wello’s CEO Heikki Paakkinen, said, ”This new project has the potential to set in motion more projects in and around the area, with many parties already showing interest in developing the site further. We know that we can create many opportunities in The Basque country and across the globe.”
Saipem will provide Wello OY with the transportation and installation of the WEC Penguin “WEC2” from a yard in the Orkney Islands, where it is currently located, to the BiMEP test area. Works encompass towing, mooring installation, deployment of the WEC2, operation & maintenance and other marine works.
This first joint project demonstrates the competitive advantages of the cooperation agreement between Saipem and Wello OY and establishes a model that can be applied to several business opportunities in the near future.
Francesco Balestrino, Renewables and Green Technologies Business Development Manager of Saipem’s XSIGHT Division, said, “Following the cooperation agreement signed last September, this project represents Saipem’s first opportunity to perform a project in the marine energy field that is consistent with our diversification strategy. It also proves Saipem’s commitment to provide its clients with new sustainable solutions.”
