The installation of Arcadis Ost 1 offshore wind turbines has come to a close for now as Heerema Marine Contractors completed the installation of 24 out of 27 units at the site located in the Baltic Sea 19 km off the German island Rügen.

The contractor deployed the floating installation method it developed together with Vestas. The latter, however, faced delays on the deliveries of some rotor blades which meant not all 27 wind turbines could be installed. The remaining three are set to be completed in autumn, completing the 257 MW wind farm.

RNA proves a success

Despite the delay in components delivery, Heerema and Vestas can both be happy with the Rotor Nacelle Assembly (RNA) method for installing wind turbine generators with floating vessels.

According to Heerema, installation cycle times were consistent and competitive with traditional methods while the floating installation introduces various specific benefits, such as zero seabed interaction which is especially important in areas of significant water depth or challenging soil conditions.

“As offshore wind energy targets grow, this kind of innovation is key if we want to move towards a sustainable future as fast as possible. As zones go further offshore and turbines increase in size, we are certain to see a continued demand for substantial innovation in our industry. We are delighted to be a part of this journey,” commented Eric Antoons, co-CEO of Parkwind.

Heerema’s project manager, Thijs Postma, added, “Knowing that the entire market was watching the first commercial floating installation of wind turbine generators was a unique and special experience and I’m especially proud of the huge team effort that made this project possible. We thank all of our partners and subcontractors and look forward to the second campaign for the remaining turbines later this year.”