Van Oord has secured a significant contract for the transport and installation of monopile foundations for the Nordseecluster offshore wind project in Germany, awarded by RWE. The 1.6 GW wind farm cluster, once completed, is expected to generate enough renewable energy to supply approximately 1.6 million German households. This project marks a crucial milestone for Van Oord as it will be the debut project for their new offshore installation vessel, Boreas, which is currently under construction.
The Nordseecluster project is a testament to the advancing renewable energy sector, aimed at reducing carbon footprints and enhancing sustainable energy solutions. Van Oord’s scope of work includes the installation of 104 extended monopiles and the necessary scour protection. The installation timeline is set with 44 monopiles planned for 2025 and the remaining 60 scheduled for 2027.
Boreas, the vessel set to undertake this project, is a groundbreaking addition to Van Oord’s fleet. Designed specifically for the transport and installation of the next-generation foundations and turbines for offshore wind farms, Boreas will be the largest offshore installation vessel of its kind. With a crane capacity exceeding 3,000 tonnes, it can install wind turbines of up to 20 MW capacity at sea.
A standout feature of Boreas is its capability to operate entirely on methanol, significantly reducing its carbon emissions. Green methanol, produced using renewable energy sources, is seen as a promising future fuel. Boreas’s ability to use green methanol can reduce its carbon footprint by more than 78%, aligning with Van Oord’s commitment to sustainability and its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The Nordseecluster project is a prime example of the rapid evolution and expansion of the offshore wind energy sector. Offshore wind farms are increasingly becoming a vital component of global energy strategies, aiming to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and combat climate change. Projects like Nordseecluster are essential in the transition to renewable energy sources, offering substantial environmental benefits and supporting energy security.
Van Oord’s involvement in the Nordseecluster project highlights its expertise and leadership in the offshore wind sector. The company’s innovative approach and investment in state-of-the-art technology, such as the Boreas vessel, position it at the forefront of the industry. This project not only enhances Van Oord’s portfolio but also contributes to the broader goals of sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
The installation process for the Nordseecluster will involve meticulous planning and execution. Monopile foundations, which are large, cylindrical structures driven into the seabed, provide the necessary support for offshore wind turbines. The scour protection ensures the stability and longevity of these structures by preventing erosion around the base of the monopiles.
By utilizing advanced vessels like Boreas, Van Oord can efficiently and effectively carry out these complex installations, ensuring the stability and productivity of the wind farm. The use of green methanol as a fuel source for Boreas underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability, setting a benchmark for future offshore wind projects.
The Nordseecluster project, with its ambitious scale and innovative execution, reflects the dynamic and progressive nature of the renewable energy sector. It is a significant step towards a greener future, demonstrating how technological advancements and sustainable practices can converge to achieve large-scale environmental and economic benefits.
