SolarinBlue Completes Field Tests for Offshore Solar Project Méga Sète
French renewable energy company SolarinBlue has recently achieved a significant milestone in its offshore solar project, Méga Sète, with the completion of geotechnical survey and anchor traction tests.
The tests, conducted on February 27 and 28, were crucial in assessing the viability of the anchoring system before deployment. SolarinBlue utilized a high-vibration vibrocoring system to analyze the seabed at key locations, ensuring compatibility with low-impact anchoring methods that minimize disruption to marine ecosystems.
Furthermore, an anchor traction test was performed to validate the system’s strength and reliability, paving the way for the project’s progression towards implementation.
“These tests mark a major milestone in de-risking offshore solar and preparing for its scalability at sea,” stated SolarinBlue in a social media post.
The operations were supported by Jifmar Group, leveraging their expertise to ensure a smooth execution of the tests.
Key Project Details
Méga Sète, a 1 MW offshore solar project, will cover one hectare and is projected to generate over 1,300 MWh annually. The electricity produced will be transmitted via a submarine cable to the port of Sète-Frontignan, aligning with the company’s goal of decarbonizing energy consumption.
Notably, SolarinBlue’s technology is compatible with both fixed and floating offshore wind farms, enabling shared connections to reduce infrastructure costs and boost renewable electricity production at the same site.
Recognition and Support
In January, SolarinBlue was selected as one of the 52 companies by the EU-backed TREASURE project to address environmental challenges in Euro-MED ports. The selection criteria focused on technological innovation, scalability across different port environments, and potential impact.
Additionally, in June 2024, SolarinBlue received €6 million in funding from the French government as part of the France 2030 program, operated by ADEME, the French Agency for Ecological Transition, further supporting the development of its floating solar project.