Heerema to build float-over barge for the installation of offshore sub-stations

Heerema Marine Contractors has signed a contract with TenneT for the delivery of a new float-over barge, tailored to install more than 30,000 mT two-gigawatt offshore substations (OSS) for the expansion of the Dutch and German electricity grids.

The new barge will support the installation of ultra heavy topsides, such as TenneT’s 2GW topsides, supporting the expansion of renewable energy capacity and reinforcing our commitment to innovation and sustainability in the maritime and energy sectors.

The project is part of TenneT's investment strategy aimed at enhancing the energy infrastructure in the North Sea.

“The Dutch and German governments, on the basis of European climate goals and the desire to become more independent from fossil fuel, have tasked TenneT to expand the national power grids in support of offshore wind energy," said Dick Lagerweij, responsible for the 2GW Transport and Installation contracts at TenneT.

"TenneT’s two-gigawatt program is based on standardisation and long-term agreements which allow contractors to invest in time to support and de-risk the program.

"Vital part of the two-gigawatt grid connections are the DC offshore power converters, of which TenneT is planning to install more than 14 in the North Sea.”