Renewables aren’t the future—they’re the present. This bold truth was on full display at the RE+ Trade Show in Anaheim, the premier event for the renewable energy industry. With over 27,000 attendees and hundreds of exhibitors, innovation was the name of the game. Among the tech titans and breakthrough ideas, one standout stole the spotlight: elastomeric moorings.

Yes, moorings. These unsung heroes of marine and offshore renewable energy are quietly revolutionizing how we anchor the future. From stabilizing floating solar arrays to reducing environmental impact, elastomeric moorings are proving that what’s beneath the surface matters as much as what’s above.

Why RE+ Is the Industry Event of the Year

The RE+ Trade Show isn’t just a conference; it’s a battleground for innovation. Industry leaders, startups, and researchers converge to showcase cutting-edge technologies in solar, wind, storage, and, yes, floating renewables.

This year’s focus? Resilience and sustainability. With global renewable energy capacity projected to increase by 2400 gigawatts by 2027, the demand for solutions that can scale is urgent. Floating solar platforms and offshore wind farms are gaining traction, and elastomeric moorings are playing a critical role in their success.

Elastomeric Moorings: The Game-Changer for Floating Renewables

If you’re in the renewable energy game, you know that mooring systems aren’t just accessories—they’re critical infrastructure. Elastomeric moorings, made from high-performance polymers, are designed to stretch under load and return to their original shape. Here’s why they’re gaining traction:

  1. Wave Energy Absorption: Floating solar platforms and offshore wind turbines must endure relentless wave action. Elastomeric moorings absorb this energy, minimizing stress on the structure and ensuring stability even in turbulent waters.
  2. Environmental Benefits: Unlike traditional moorings that drag across the seabed, elastomeric systems reduce environmental impact. They keep ecosystems intact, a vital feature as environmental regulations tighten globally.
  3. Cost Efficiency: Long-lasting and low-maintenance, elastomeric moorings reduce the total cost of ownership. That’s music to the ears of renewable energy developers working on tight margins.

Standout Exhibitors at RE+ That Highlighted Elastomeric Moorings

The RE+ Trade Show in Anaheim showcased several innovators leveraging elastomeric mooring systems. Companies like Hazelett Marine, known for their expertise in sustainable mooring technology, were a major draw. Their conservation-focused solutions, including elastomeric systems, demonstrated how these technologies can anchor renewable projects without compromising marine health.

Another highlight? Collaborative projects between mooring manufacturers and renewable energy developers. Floating solar installations, such as those using Hazelett Marine’s systems, showed how elastomeric moorings create stable platforms in even the harshest aquatic environments.

Actionable Insights for Renewable Energy Professionals

If you’re considering elastomeric moorings for your next project, here’s how to get started:

  1. Evaluate Site Conditions: Wave height, current strength, and seabed composition all influence mooring selection. Elastomeric moorings excel in high-energy environments but require precise design for optimal performance.
  2. Prioritize Environmental Compliance: Projects in sensitive marine areas benefit immensely from elastomeric systems. Their minimal seabed impact can simplify permitting processes.
  3. Engage Early with Experts: Companies like Hazelett Marine offer tailored solutions that integrate seamlessly with floating solar or offshore wind platforms. Early collaboration can save time and money.

Why Elastomeric Moorings Are Here to Stay

As renewable energy expands into aquatic environments, elastomeric moorings are poised to play a pivotal role. Their ability to combine durability, environmental sensitivity, and cost efficiency makes them a no-brainer for developers looking to future-proof their projects.

The RE+ Trade Show wasn’t just a showcase for these systems—it was proof of their necessity. If you missed it this year, mark your calendar for next year’s event. And if elastomeric moorings weren’t on your radar, it’s time to dive deeper.

The future of renewable energy is floating. Elastomeric moorings are what keep it anchored.