China's groundbreaking 16MW tension-leg floating wind platform, Haiyou Anlan, has begun operations, marking a significant milestone in the country's renewable energy ambitions. This innovative structure, designed to withstand the most severe typhoons, is a testament to China's commitment to sustainable development and its leadership in deep-sea wind technology.
What makes this achievement particularly remarkable is the platform's ability to supply green electricity to offshore oil operations in the South China Sea. By connecting to the Lufeng oilfield grid, Haiyou Anlan is not only powering these operations but also reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption. This is a crucial step towards China's goal of expanding green energy production and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
The platform's location in the Pearl River Mouth Basin, approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Shenzhen, presents unique challenges. At a depth of 136 meters and 136 kilometers from the coast, the structure requires advanced engineering to maintain stability and withstand the harsh marine environment. The use of tension-leg platforms, with their buoyant hulls and taut vertical tendons, is a testament to the ingenuity required to harness wind power in such demanding conditions.
One of the key challenges in this project was the structural strength and construction precision needed to support a wind-swept area equivalent to 7.5 standard football fields. CNOOC's development of high-strength mooring systems and high-precision anchoring technologies, along with a multi-equipment operation system, showcases their expertise in overcoming these technical hurdles. The three-dimensional sea condition simulation system further highlights their commitment to precision and safety.
Lin Boqiang, director of the China Center for Energy Economics Research at Xiamen University, emphasizes the broader implications of this project. He notes that floating wind systems enable access to stronger wind resources in deeper and more distant waters, expanding the potential for offshore wind development. While the technology is now mature, costs remain a significant challenge. However, the project's success in eastern China could pave the way for further expansion of green electricity supply in the region.
The development of deep-sea floating wind power in China is part of a broader strategy to accelerate the growth of its green energy system. With a focus on reducing emissions and enhancing energy security, China is making significant strides in the production of green fuels. As of the end of 2025, the country had a substantial green fuel production capacity of about 8 million tons of oil equivalent per year, with notable outputs in green methanol, ammonia, and sustainable aviation fuel.
In conclusion, the operation of Haiyou Anlan is a significant step forward in China's journey towards a sustainable future. It demonstrates the country's technological prowess and commitment to renewable energy, while also highlighting the potential for deep-sea floating wind power to contribute to a cleaner and more resilient energy landscape.
