The license, issued by Portugal’s Directorate-General for Natural Resources, Safety and Maritime Services (DGRM), provides Gazelle exclusive rights to a designated maritime area for testing its advanced floating platform. The Nau Azul project features a patented design with a unique geometry and counterweight system, reducing steel use and lowering costs while maintaining a compact footprint suitable for shallow ports.
Gazelle’s technology aims to harness wind resources in deep waters, offering a scalable solution for sustainable energy. The company highlighted that the project’s lightweight and modular platform minimizes capital expenses and simplifies manufacturing, paving the way for broader commercial applications.
Located in Agucadoura, the project site builds on the region’s legacy as a hub for offshore energy innovation, previously hosting one of Europe’s first floating wind pilots, WindFloat 1. The Nau Azul demonstrator will connect to the grid, serving as a model for future global deployments while advancing Portugal’s renewable energy goals.
Jon Salazar, Gazelle Wind Power’s chief executive, stated: “This Tupem authorisation marks a major milestone for our business and underscores Portugal’s leadership in offshore wind and its commitment to a secure, sustainable energy future. Securing the Tupem authorisation allows us to launch environmental monitoring and prepare for the installation of our full-scale, grid-connected demonstrator, which will serve as a blueprint for commercial deployments worldwide. It’s a major step forward in our roadmap to commercialisation.”
The project is expected to create job opportunities in Viana do Castelo, supporting local industries from manufacturing and assembly to marine operations and maintenance. Gazelle Wind Power, headquartered in Dublin and Viana do Castelo, also maintains operations in Spain and London, reflecting its growing presence in the renewable energy sector.
The Nau Azul initiative represents a significant advancement in floating wind technology, with potential to enhance energy reliability through innovative design. By leveraging Agucadoura’s strategic location, Gazelle aims to demonstrate the viability of its platform for deep-water environments, contributing to Europe’s sustainable energy landscape.
As preparations for environmental monitoring and installation begin, the project underscores Portugal’s role as a leader in offshore wind development. Gazelle’s efforts in Agucadoura are set to lay the groundwork for future renewable energy projects, fostering economic and environmental benefits for the region and beyond.
