EnBW completes installation of the 64 foundations required to build the He Dreiht offshore wind farm.
Located in the North Sea, this project, which will have a total capacity of 960 megawatts, is part of Germany’s energy ambitions.
The foundations, consisting of steel monopiles, are 70 metres long and weigh 1,350 tonnes each.
These structures, essential for the stability of the wind turbines, were installed in just three months using Heerema’s “Thialf” floating crane.
The turbines, each with a capacity of 15 MW, will be installed in spring 2025.
They will enable the park to generate electricity capable of powering around 1.1 million homes.
He Dreiht is being developed without public subsidies, a financial model which could influence other similar projects in Europe, and which demonstrates the profitable prospects of offshore wind projects.
Technical advances and operational challenges
The He Dreiht site mobilizes considerable resources, with over 500 professionals and 60 vessels involved in the operations.
The installation of the foundations represents a critical phase, both in terms of technical complexity and maritime conditions.
The robustness of these structures is crucial to the success of the project, especially in an environment as demanding as the North Sea.
The operation of the wind farm, once the turbines have been installed, will require rigorous management.
The challenges of maintenance and integration into the German power grid are central to ensuring stable, secure production.
EnBW’s decision to dispense with subsidies is based on the long-term profitability of this project, reinforcing the economic viability of large-scale energy infrastructures.
