Culzean Wind Turbine

NEO NEXT+ is one of the largest offshore oil and gas operators on the UK continental shelf (UKCS).

As part of our commitment to support the growth of cleaner energy production and to meet the UK’s net-zero targets, we are proposing to demonstrate the possibility of powering existing oil and gas assets via the installation of a floating wind turbine.

About the project

NEO NEXT+ Energy E&P North Sea UK is proposing the construction and deployment of a Floating Offshore Wind Turbine (FOWT) at our existing Culzean platform in the Central North Sea, around 222km east of Aberdeen. The project aims to demonstrate the possibility of powering one of our oil and gas assets with renewable electricity, as well as how we’re decarbonising our operations.

The pilot project has two main objectives:

  • Qualify a new concept of semi-submersible floater to support the wind turbine; and
  • Perform a hybrid power test on an oil and gas facility

A single floating wind turbine will be built in a single phase and will supply renewable wind power to the Culzean platform.

Key project components

The Culzean floating wind turbine pilot will consist of the following key components:

  • A single wind turbine
  • A floater to support the wind turbine
  • A single export cable from the turbine to the Culzean platform, and
  • Mooring and anchoring systems to connect the floating substructure to the seabed

The project is currently in the onshore construction phase in Wergeland, Norway, with offshore construction expected to be completed by the end of Q3 2026. Further information is available on the Marine Directorate website, including the Safe Zone Application, Environmental Impact Assessment, and the Marine Licence.

For information on the vessels supporting offshore construction activities, please see Culzean Floating Wind offshore construction vessel information.