I’m a firm believer that the future, whatever it will bring, is created here and now. And I’m often reminded of this perspective when thinking about the offshore wind industry – particularly with regard to the current situations in Germany and the UK.
All eyes are on Borkum Riffgrund 1, the 78-turbine DONG Energy wind farm for which both A2SEA and CT Offshore have been busily preparing. Located 37 kilometres to the north of the island of Borkum, the first monopile foundation for Borkum Riffgrund 1 wind farm was installed on 21 January 2014. Now, with foundations and transition pieces in place, it’s time for the teams at A2SEA and CT Offshore to swing into action, executing plans that have been carefully laid over many months. Continue reading
During 2013–2015, DONG Energy is building the Borkum Riffgrund 1 Wind Farm in the German sector of the North Sea.
What can offshore wind learn from industrial manufacturing? DONG Energy’s Mats Vikholm, drawing on his experience as a top manager at Volvo, Pininfarina and SAAB, is at the helm to encourage best practices that can help to lower the cost of energy. Where has he started – and what are his responsibilities and viewpoints? Continue reading
A2SEA’s installation work began early in August at Westermost Rough, where 35 Siemens 6 MW turbines are being installed by SEA CHALLENGER. It’s the first commercial installation of these game-changing machines, which are a major step forward in reducing the cost of energy in offshore wind. Continue reading
Pre-assembly of turbine components in Esbjerg assisted a 25 percent decrease in installation time and a clean safety record for the Kårehamn wind farm project. But that was just the beginning. We asked MHI Vestas Offshore Wind to tell us more about its pre-assembly capabilities today – and its plans for tomorrow. Continue reading
Often, new technology doesn’t live up to expectations – and there have been plenty of expectations around second-generation vessels such as SEA INSTALLER. Has this much-awaited vessel delivered on its promises? Continue reading
For Brian Bendixen, the three years he has worked at A2SEA have been quite an adventure. In that time, he has had the helm on SEA JACK, SEA WORKER and SEA INSTALLER, and now heads up operations aboard the latest addition to the A2SEA fleet, SEA CHALLENGER.
Before joining A2SEA, Brian worked in the oil industry, with his last two years in that industry as a ship’s master for product tankers, which move refined oil products from refineries to points near consuming markets. Continue reading
Recent turbulence has left the German market a mixed bag for supply chain participants and investors. However, with the first major project successfully completed and more on the way, the general atmosphere is quickly becoming more positive. TurbineInstaller reviews the current state of offshore wind in German waters. Continue reading
By Jens Frederik Hansen, CEO, A2SEA
Are heavy investments in safety management just part of doing business in offshore wind – or are companies who prioritise such investments better positioned to succeed?
In many other industries, CEOs are often quoted saying that safety and health is key for their company’s success. But does the same apply to offshore wind construction companies? And is there a tangible competitive advantage for installation contractors who don’t just react to client safety demands but proactively think beyond? Continue reading