DemoSATH Lab has been awarded at the World Maritime Week (WMW) and shortlisted for the prestigious Wind Investment Awards 2025 in the Technical Innovation category. These recognitions highlight the initiative’s dedication to advancing offshore wind energy as a responsible and sustainable industry.
DemoSATH Lab is part of DemoSATH, a pioneering offshore wind energy project led by Saitec, in collaboration with RWE and The Kansai Electric Power Co. This initiative successfully deployed Spain’s first floating wind turbine, capable of generating power for 2,500 households.
Located at the BiMEP testing platform, 2 miles off the Basque coast, the 2MW DemoSATH turbine is a significant step forward in floating wind technology. The project not only validates the SATH (Swing Around Twin Hull) floating platform design, but also integrates extensive research on environmental impact, biodiversity promotion, and coexistence with marine activities.
Innovative Initiatives for Sustainable Offshore Wind Development
To ensure the harmonious coexistence of offshore wind farms with marine ecosystems and local communities, DemoSATH Lab has implemented a series of groundbreaking initiatives, some supported by RWE, including:
Promoting Biodiversity with Hybrid Blue-Grey Infrastructure
The SATH Reef Unit is a nature-based solution (NbS) designed to enhance marine biodiversity and promote sustainable aquaculture. Constructed using recycled wind turbine blades and mollusk shells, this innovative artificial reef provides a vital habitat for marine species while also serving as a protective structure for subsea cables.
(Image credit: Saitec Offshore Technologies)
Sustainable Barnacle Cultivation & Multitrophic Aquaculture
DemoSATH Lab, in collaboration with local fishers and aquaculture experts, is pioneering sustainable barnacle farming methods with the goal of industrial-scale deployment on future floating platforms. The initiative also includes the cultivation of oysters, clams, mussels, and seaweed, contributing to marine food production while enhancing biodiversity.
Experimental Fisheries & Species Restoration
By working closely with local fishing communities and BiMEP, DemoSATH Lab is testing low-impact fishing techniques, including surface longlines and traps in wind farm areas. Additionally, efforts are underway to restore commercially.
