First successful load-out of monopiles in Eemshaven after transport to Eemshaven
The first transport of monopiles for the Nordlicht 1 offshore wind project arrived in Eemshaven, marking the start of a major logistics operation in support of one of Germany’s largest offshore wind developments. The transport of all 68 monopiles will be carried out by Wagenborg on behalf of DEME and represents an important milestone in the construction of the Nordlicht offshore wind cluster.
The monopiles are transported from Rostock to Eemshaven using a dedicated fleet of tugs and pontoons. For this transport, Wagenborg deploys her 80tBP tug Waterland while the Eems Warrior and Grossnordsee have been chartered to support the operation. In addition, Wagenborg’s 15.000 dwt pontoons Wagenborg Barge 7, Wagenborg Barge 8 and Wagenborg Barge 10 will be used for the transport of the monopiles between Rostock and Eemshaven next to the charteredMüller Barge 10033-1.
Upon arrival in Eemshaven, the monopiles are transferred to DEME’s offshore installation vessel Orion, which will install the foundations at the wind farm site in the German North Sea. During the unloading activities, Wagenborg is responsible for the ballast operations that ensure the stability and safe handling of the transport barges.
Eemshaven as a strategic hub for offshore wind
The project demonstrates the strength of Wagenborg’s integrated service offering in Eemshaven. In addition to providing marine transport and ballast operations, Wagenborg facilitates the project through its terminal infrastructure and agency services. The company coordinates vessel calls, port logistics and operational support, creating an efficient connection between the supply chain onshore and the offshore installation campaign.
Strategically located on the doorstep of the North Sea, Eemshaven has become an important hub for offshore wind developments. Its deep-water access, extensive quay infrastructure and direct access to offshore project locations make it ideally suited for handling large-scale components such as monopiles and transition pieces. With its available quay facilities, maritime expertise and broad range of logistics services, Wagenborg is able to support offshore wind projects from arrival in port through to offshore installation.
About Nordlicht I
The Nordlicht cluster, located in the German North Sea, is one of the largest renewable energy projects currently under development in Europe. Nordlicht I will have an installed capacity of 980 MW and is expected to become Germany’s largest offshore wind farm once operational. The wind farm will consist of 68 wind turbines, each supported by a monopile foundation. Manufactured in Rostock, the monopiles measure up to 80.5 metres in length and weigh up to 1,290 tonnes each. Together with Nordlicht II, the cluster will provide more than 1.6 GW of renewable energy capacity and generate approximately 6 TWh of fossil-free electricity annually.
