In mid-July 2023, the vessel mobilization for MV Lone was successfully completed, marking the commencement of the execution phase. In Emden, MV Lone underwent various enhancements, including the installation of her Fly-Jib, additional living quarters, and the incorporation of project equipment provided by the client. Notably, a new tugger arm arrangement was installed at crane 2, promising significant improvements in offshore operations.
Following these preparations, MV Lone embarked on a journey to Italy to gather additional project equipment on behalf of Jan De Nul. Subsequently, the vessel set course for Eemshaven for the initial loading of secondary steel components necessary for installation at Ørsted’s offshore wind farms, Gode Wind 3 and Borkum Riffgrund 3. These two wind farms, boasting a combined capacity of 1,166 MW and powered by cutting-edge 11-MW Siemens Gamesa turbines, are poised to provide clean energy to approximately 1.2 million households annually.
Borkum Riffgrund 3 will join the ranks of Ørsted’s existing offshore wind farms, Borkum Riffgrund 1 and 2, while Gode Wind 3 will be situated in close proximity to Ørsted’s Gode Wind 1 and 2. These wind farms are anticipated to become operational by 2024 and 2025, holding the promise of a positive environmental and community impact.
Morten Hinrichs, Head of Project Management at SAL Heavy Lift, expressed optimism about these initiatives, stating, “We anticipate that these projects will have a positive impact on the environment and neighboring communities. We are highly optimistic that these initiatives will create a positive impact on the lives of the local people and enhance the ecological balance in the region.”
Meanwhile, the offshore installation vessel Les Alizés has already commenced the installation of the 107 monopile foundations, including one for the Offshore Substation (OSS). MV Lone’s responsibilities include the installation of boat landings, platforms, and corrosion protection systems on these foundations. The execution phase officially kicked off on August 6, with MV Lone and the project team dedicated to delivering excellent service to the client.
