Belgian marine engineering giant DEME has clinched a significant contract for the OranjeWind offshore wind farm in the Netherlands. The project, spearheaded by energy powerhouses RWE and TotalEnergies, aims to bolster renewable energy generation with nearly 800 MW of installed capacity. DEME’s role is pivotal, focusing on the transport and installation of 114 kilometers of inter-array cables and secondary steel, essential for the wind farm’s operational infrastructure.
The inter-array cables will link the 53 wind turbine foundations to the offshore substation, ensuring seamless energy transmission across the network. DEME will handle the entire process, from engineering to execution, providing a turnkey solution. This holistic approach is key, particularly when considering the challenging seabed conditions in the Dutch North Sea, known for its dynamic sand waves. To combat these challenges, DEME will conduct pre-sweeping in specific areas, ensuring that cables are buried at the required depths.
The company’s experience with complex subsea installations shines through in this contract. Beyond the cables, DEME will transport and install secondary steel components, including boat landings and access platforms, crucial for maintaining the wind farm’s infrastructure. The monopile foundations, which serve as the base for the turbines, will be equipped with internal platforms, further strengthening the site’s resilience.
DEME’s diverse offshore fleet will be central to the operation. Cable-laying vessels, a hopper dredger, and fallpipe vessels are among the specialized equipment slated for use when work begins in the latter half of 2026. The project is a testament to DEME’s ability to deliver comprehensive solutions for the rapidly growing offshore wind sector.
This contract marks the latest in a series of cable-related wins for DEME. Recent contracts include work on TenneT’s IJmuiden Ver Alpha and Nederwiek 1 offshore grid systems, as well as a high-voltage subsea cable installation for the Princess Elisabeth Island project in the Belgian North Sea. According to DEME’s General Manager of Subsea Power Cables, Philip Scheers, the OranjeWind project underscores DEME’s continued leadership in the sector. “With our diverse offshore fleet and specialized equipment, we are well positioned to successfully deliver this project,” he said.
As the demand for offshore wind continues to soar, DEME’s expertise positions it as a key player in Europe’s renewable energy transformation, supporting the push toward a more sustainable future.
