NextFloat Project Secures EIA Approval for Mediterranean Test Site

The PlemCat test site, situated within the LEBA 1 commercial area in the Spanish sector of the Mediterranean, has officially secured approval for the environmental impact assessment regarding the upcoming NextFloat project. This confirmation was formalized through a notice published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado on 8 July 2026, marking a significant regulatory milestone for the deployment of the X100 8.5MW platform. As the first instance of X1 Wind deploying a commercial-scale platform, the NextFloat project represents a critical phase in the development of floating offshore wind technology. The site will host an 8.5-MW downwind turbine featuring a diameter of 160 m, which is intended to operate for several years to gather essential data. This operational period is designed to facilitate prototype certification and establish a foundation for future full-scale commercialization efforts.

Technical Specifications and Engineering Standards of the X100 Platform

The engineering behind the X100 platform utilizes an innovative foundation that integrates the stability of a tension-leg platform with the cost-efficiency typically associated with semi-submersible structures. A notable feature of this tripod-shaped design is its primary steel structure, which weighs approximately 1,500 tonnes. This represents a weight reduction of 30-50% when compared to traditional steel floaters used in European pre-commercial projects of similar magnitude. Such efficiency is expected to pave the way for the subsequent commercialization of the X150 platform, which is being developed to support turbines exceeding 20MW. Furthermore, the X100 platform has recently obtained a statement of compliance from DNV, verifying that the system adheres to international safety, engineering, and technical requirements.

Strategic Milestones and Collaborative Industry Support

Alex Raventós, the co-founder and chief executive of X1 Wind, stated, “Obtaining the EIA for the PlemCat site is a key achievement for the NextFloat project. Coupled with basic design certification from DNV, it demonstrates that our technology is safe, environmentally responsible, and ready for deployment. This brings us one massive step closer to making floating offshore wind cost-competitive globally.” Supporting this sentiment, Technip Energies NextFloat project manager Jacques Vendé noted that the involved parties “are now in a strong position to advance towards financial close and our commercial-scale pilot… paving the way for a future of low-cost floating offshore wind.” The initiative continues to receive backing from a diverse group of stakeholders, including private capital, EU funding, the French state, and the Spanish Government. To ensure long-term success, the project will maintain strict adherence to technical requirements throughout its operation. The primary steel structure and overall tripod-shaped design will be monitored alongside the performance of the downwind turbine to facilitate full-scale commercialization.