Ocean Winds and Brazilian university partner to boost offshore wind capacity

Ocean Winds (OW) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN) to advance offshore wind capabilities in Brazil. 

The partnership will leverage OW’s global expertise in offshore wind, with 18.5 GW of total capacity, including 2 GW under construction and 1.5 GW operational, to enhance Brazil’s offshore wind sector.

Since 2020, OW has filed proposals for five offshore wind projects in Brazil, totalling 15 GW across Piauí, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio de Janeiro, and Rio Grande do Sul, as registered with the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA).

The collaboration aims to establish sustainable regulatory frameworks, bolster local supply chain strategies, and enhance community engagement. By combining OW’s industry experience with UFRN’s academic expertise, the partnership seeks to promote economic growth, job creation, and technological advancements.

OW Brazil and South America Business Development Director Rafael Palhares emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach involving academia, industry, and local communities, highlighting OW’s commitment to generating local value and fostering social development through offshore wind initiatives.