Nordseecluster A, with a capacity of 660 MW, is the initial phase of the broader Nordseecluster initiative. The scour protection work is being performed by Van Oord’s flexible fallpipe vessel Stornes, equipped with a dynamic positioning system, a flexible fallpipe, and advanced remotely operated vehicle (ROV) technology. Van Oord stated: “This allows the company to install the scour protection with high precision and efficiency, even at greater water depths.”
The scour protection ensures stability for the monopile foundations, which Van Oord will install later this year. These foundations will support 44 Vestas V236-15.0 MW wind turbines and one offshore substation for Nordseecluster A. The first monopiles, produced by Dajin Heavy Industry, have arrived at the Buss Terminal in Eemshaven, Netherlands, ready for installation.
In a subsequent phase, Van Oord’s Boreas offshore installation vessel will handle the foundation installation, marking its debut project. The vessel, featuring a crane with over 3,000 tonnes of lifting capacity, is designed to install wind turbines up to 20 MW, ensuring efficient construction of the wind farm.
Nordseecluster A is slated to be fully grid-connected by 2027, contributing clean energy to Germany’s power supply. The second phase, Nordseecluster B, will add 900 MW of capacity, with commercial operations expected to commence in early 2029. Together, the two phases will form a 1.6 GW wind energy hub, supporting Germany’s renewable energy goals.
Van Oord’s expertise in offshore construction is central to the project’s progress. The company’s advanced vessels and technology enable precise and reliable installation, even in challenging marine environments. The scour protection and foundation work are critical to ensuring the long-term stability and performance of the wind farm.
The Nordseecluster project highlights the collaboration between RWE, Van Oord, and suppliers like Dajin Heavy Industry and Vestas to advance sustainable energy solutions. By leveraging existing infrastructure and innovative technology, the project aims to deliver reliable renewable energy while supporting economic and environmental objectives in the region.
This milestone underscores the growing momentum of offshore wind development in Germany, positioning Nordseecluster as a key contributor to the country’s clean energy transition and long-term sustainability efforts.
