Gamesa expects to begin the installation of this prototype in the second quarter of 2013, with a view to achieving certification in the following months, to permit the installations of the pre-series turbines in an offshore wind farm towards the end of 2013 or early 2014.
Following extensive research to identify suitable sites, Gamesa selected Arinaga on the basis of technical considerations for certification, wind conditions in the region, market performance and customer investment plans and its forecast.
Read more: Gamesa to lay off 394 workers
This offshore prototype will be the first to be installed in Spain.
Read more: Gamesa sells 70 MW wind farm to Iberdrola
Gamesa's priority in the offshore market is to achieve product certification in order to guarantee the successful launch, marketing and manufacturing of its offshore platforms in the years ahead.
"The offshore wind power market is developing at a firm pace. However, demand is being tempered by economic and financial factors and the difficulties being encountered by developers in accessing credit. The authorities are firmly committed to the development of offshore wind power in major markets such as the UK, Germany, France and China. Based upon the current situation, the U.S. market appears to be set to develop later than others. Regional and country specific market conditions warrant even more rational decision-making process than ever, from both the technology and financial standpoints", said Jorge Calvet, Chairman and CEO of Gamesa.
