In a significant step forward for renewable energy in Italy, the Ministry of the Environment has granted the Environmental Impact Assessment approval for a pioneering floating wind farm project in the Strait of Sicily. The project, led by 7Seas Med, aims to generate 250 MW of electric power, marking a notable advancement in the nation’s green energy capabilities.
Set approximately 35 kilometers off the coast near Marsala, the facility will feature twenty wind turbines, each with a capacity of 12 MW. Unlike traditional offshore wind turbines anchored to the seabed, these will be mounted on TetraSub platforms. Engineered by Stiesdal Offshore Technologies, these platforms boast an asymmetrical tetrahedral design with ballasts at the vertices, ensuring stability against the forces of wind and sea. This innovative floating technology not only circumvents the Mediterranean’s deep-sea bed limitations but also minimizes environmental and visual impacts due to its distance from the shore.
With the Environmental Impact Assessment now approved, 7Seas Med plans to apply for offshore wind incentives under the Fer2 Decree, positioning itself at the forefront of exploiting the Mediterranean’s vast renewable energy potential. Experts estimate this potential at around 207 GW, opening doors to future projects not only in Sicily but also in Puglia and Sardinia. This development represents a leap forward in Italy's commitment to sustainable energy, showcasing the nation's growing role in the global shift towards greener power solutions.