Ecofys launches offshore wind, seaweed biofuels hybrid project in North Sea

In the Netherlands, Ecofys has started a trial with the combination of seaweed cultivation and offshore wind energy.  Their seaweed module measures 20 by 20 meters, consists of a set of steel cables, held two meters under the sea surface. Horizontal nets measuring 10 by 10 meters are suspended between the cables.Seaweed plants of species that occur naturally in the North Sea are attached to the nets.

The trial will test if the module is ‘North Sea proof’, the survival and growth rate of the plants, and the ecological effects.  Ecofys is expects bring in their harvest in late June.