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A consortium of seven energy and engineering organisations has launched the RHODÉ project, a major research and development initiative focused on floating high-voltage direct current (HVDC) electrical connections for deep-water offshore wind farms.

The project brings together Chantiers de l’Atlantique, GE Vernova, Nexans, RTE, France Energies Marines, Fondation OPEN‑C, and SuperGrid Institute, combining expertise across offshore engineering, grid infrastructure, and subsea cable systems.

The RHODÉ project aims to develop and validate key technological building blocks for floating HVDC substations, including transformers, gas-insulated substations, offshore AC/DC converter stations, and dynamic HVDC cables. Two floating substation designs are planned, rated at 320 kV and 525 kV.

The consortium said the initiative is intended to bridge the gap between existing research and future industrial deployment of large-scale floating offshore wind infrastructure expected around 2040.

In a joint statement, the partners said: “The RHODÉ project aims to develop and test the key technological building blocks required for a first high-power floating connection.” They added that the program will support the development of a competitive industrial sector for offshore wind energy in France and export markets.

The R&D program includes system design, numerical modelling, environmental impact assessments, hydrodynamic testing, and offshore validation trials. It also covers installation, maintenance, and decommissioning concepts for floating substations.

The project has received €16 million in funding under France’s France 2030 initiative, operated by ADEME.

Source: supergrid-institute.com