The Hollandse Kust Zuid wind farm, located offshore the Netherlands, has reached a significant milestone with the installation of its final turbine.
Developed by Vattenfall, the project is set to become the largest operational offshore wind farm globally. It will boast a capacity of 1.5 GW. Over the coming months, the turbines will undergo commissioning and testing. Eventually, the official inauguration of Hollandse Kust Zuid is expected later this year.
Expressing pride in reaching this pivotal moment, Project Director Ian Bremner highlighted the significance of Hollandse Kust Zuid as the world’s first subsidy-free offshore wind farm. The achievement reflects a collaborative effort among Vattenfall, partners, suppliers, and contractors involved in the project. Bremner eagerly anticipates delivering this groundbreaking venture.
Cadeler, in collaboration with Siemens Gamesa, has played a vital role in the transportation and installation of all 139 offshore wind turbines. Using the Wind Osprey installation vessel, Cadeler facilitated the deployment of Siemens Gamesa’s 11 MW turbines on a commercial scale.
It required meticulous engineering and close collaboration. Jacob Heinricy Jensen, Chief Operations Officer at Cadeler, expressed pride in contributing to this record-breaking wind farm project, which will drive the green transition.
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Hollandse Kust Zuid wind farm project scope
Initially, the project was planned for 140 turbines but proceeded with 139. This was due to a damaged foundation caused by a collision with the bulk carrier Julietta D during a storm.
After careful assessment by partners, contractors, and authorities, it was concluded that the damaged foundation would not be replaced. Vattenfall stated that the foundation will be removed in 2024. Also, decisions regarding the site’s future will be made after that.
David Molenaar, Siemens Gamesa‘s Managing Director in the Netherlands, celebrated the installation of turbines manufactured in Germany and Denmark. He also emphasised the wind industry’s ability to provide Europe with secure, clean, and competitive domestic energy sources.
Owned by Vattenfall, BASF, and Allianz, Hollandse Kust Zuid is not only the world’s largest operational offshore wind farm. It is also the first subsidy-free project of its kind. The successful development of Hollandse Kust Zuid underscores the wind industry’s crucial role. This is in advancing Europe’s energy transition towards sustainability.
