HIPPOW: Testing tomorrow’s wind technology today

The HIPPOW project is advancing the next generation of offshore wind technology by testing the most powerful turbine prototype at the Wind Turbine Test Field in Østerild, Denmark. The project aims to validate several new technological developments that will make future offshore technology more efficient, sustainable and cost-effective, paving the way for cleaner energy at scale.

Over a three-year testing phase, the prototype is expected to produce enough renewable electricity to power around 7,000 average Danish households yearly, avoiding approximately 55,424 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent emissions over the project duration, a 99.93% reduction compared with conventional electricity generation.

Coordinated by Siemens Gamesa and supported by €30 million grant from the Innovation Fund under CINEA’s management, HIPPOW is a key step forward a more powerful and sustainable offshore wind turbine technology in Europe.

Pushing the boundaries of offshore wind technology

HIPPOW introduces a series of innovations across key components and systems, including the electrical system, bearings, cooling system, installation process, and maintenance strategy. These developments are designed to increase efficiency, reliability and cost-effectiveness, while reducing environmental impact and lifecycle costs.

Following detailed planning, prototype installation at the Østerild Test Centre was completed in spring 2025. The project entered into operation in July 2025, and over the next three years the project will monitor performance, validate new design features and gather technical data that will guide certification and future deployment of larger, more efficient offshore turbines across Europe’s offshore wind sector.

Overcoming the challenges of scale and transport

Transporting such large components posed major logistical challenges. Each component required precise handling and careful coordination to ensure safe and efficient delivery to the test site. Despite some weather-related delays during unloading at the destination port, transport and installation of the prototype progressed largely on schedule.

Building knowledge for the next generation of offshore wind

By testing new systems and components under real operating conditions, HIPPOW provides valuable technical data on performance, durability, and maintenance requirements. This information will help optimise future turbine design and improve installation and service strategies.

The project’s findings will also support certification and standardisation efforts, helping accelerate the rollout of innovative wind technologies and strengthen Europe’s transition towards renewable energy.

HIPPOW contributes directly to the Clean Industrial Deal by advancing innovation in offshore wind technologies. Through large-scale prototype testing, it helps expand renewable energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen Europe’s leadership and competitiveness in clean technology and industrial decarbonisation.

Learn more about the Innovation Fund.  

Article published on 17 December 2025.