Spain’s first offshore solar platform has arrived at the Port of Valencia and entered its pilot phase. BlueNewables developed the floating structure, named Paiporta, with support from Naturgy. It is positioned outside the southern breakwater for extensive testing, as part of a broader initiative to deploy two units with a capacity of 500 kW each, bringing total output to 1 MW.
The Paiporta platform uses a catamaran-style design built for marine environments. This design improves flotation and raises the solar panels above sea level, helping capture energy and simplifying maintenance. Bifacial panels let the system harness direct sunlight and light reflected from the water’s surface, increasing overall efficiency.
The Port Authority of Valencia says the second unit is scheduled to arrive by the end of summer, completing the planned installation. The project is funded by the Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving (IDAE) through the Renmarinas Valenciaport program. Its basic objective is to develop and analyze renewable solutions that support Spain’s energy transition goals.
This is the first floating solar platform of its kind at a pre-commercial scale in Spanish waters. Over the next two years, BlueNewables and Naturgy will share data on technical performance and economics, including findings from operations during the testing phase and subsequent monitoring. The initiative fits into Valenciaport’s broader strategy to build a more sustainable port model, with innovation and ability to recover as aims. Decarbonization and climate adaptation are basic priorities.
Alongside the solar project, the Port Authority is establishing a dedicated testing platform to connect renewable marine energy demonstrators to the electrical grids of the ports of Valencia and Sagunto, while assessing their integration. The infrastructure will remain available for future projects. The initiative also involves EnerMarPort, which plans to install wave energy technology at the port of Sagunto. The Port Authority is preparing the necessary grid connections.
Offshore floating solar technology is gaining momentum globally as ports and coastal cities seek to increase renewable energy production without occupying valuable land. Valencia’s pilot puts Spain at the forefront of this trend in southern Europe. If successful, the project could become a model for other Spanish ports and contribute to national clean energy targets. The region’s solar and wave energy initiatives reflect a growing commitment to diversify energy sources and cut carbon emissions in critical infrastructure.
