Norwegian energy giant Statoil said today that its Hywind project off Peterhead had outstripped expectations in its first three months of production.
Statoil said the floating wind farm worked at 65% of its maximum capacity between November and January.
The average capacity factor for a fixed-bottom array is 45-60% during those months, according to the company.
Statoil and project partner Masdar achieved the feat despite having to temporarily switch off the turbines during the period due to harsh weather conditions.
The north-east coast was buffeted by Storm Caroline in early December, when gusts in excess of 100 mph and waves heights of 8.2 metres were recorded.
Beate Myking, senior vice president of offshore wind operations in Statoil, said: “We have tested the Hywind technology in harsh weather conditions for many years and we know it works.
“But putting the world’s first floating wind farm into production comes with some excitement. Therefore, it is very encouraging to see how well the turbines have performed so far.
“Hywind Scotland’s high availability has ensured that the volume of electricity generated is substantially higher than expected.
“In addition, it has delivered without any HSE incidents.”
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