Liebherr is set to deliver three high-tech offshore cranes for wind power platforms in the Baltic Sea, supporting Germany’s push towards renewable energy. The cranes, all from Liebherr’s Ram Luffing (RL) 900 series, will be used in upcoming 50Hertz Offshore grid connection projects.
Germany aims to generate at least 80 per cent of its electricity from renewables by 2030, and offshore wind is a key part of that plan. The new RL 900 cranes will be installed on three platforms—OSS Darß, OSS Zingst, and OSS Jasmund—currently under construction. These platforms are part of two major offshore wind projects: Ostwind 3 and OST-6-1.
The Dutch-Belgian consortium HSI (HSM Offshore Energy, Smulders, and Iv) is building the platforms. Liebherr plans to deliver the cranes in 2025.
Where the cranes will be deployed
• OSS Darß and OSS Zingst: These will support the OST-6-1 grid connection, which will have a capacity of around 900 megawatts—currently the largest in the German Baltic Sea.
• OSS Jasmund: Part of the Ostwind 3 project, this platform is about 42 km northeast of Germany’s Rügen island. The wind farm will generate up to 300 megawatts, enough to power around 260,000 homes.
What makes the RL 900 cranes stand out
The RL 900 is designed for offshore use with a strong but lightweight build. It can lift up to 30 tonnes, making it perfect for maintenance and supply tasks on offshore platforms. Its compact size and low profile also help it work efficiently in tight spaces.
Each crane features a slewing column that houses the main drive, electronic controls, and hydraulic system—making it a self-contained and robust unit.
All three cranes will be fitted with Liebherr’s LiMain system, a digital maintenance platform designed to reduce the need for on-site technicians. This remote-controlled, semi-automated system cuts down maintenance trips by up to 75% on unmanned platforms. Its modular design gives operators flexibility to choose how autonomous they want the maintenance process to be.
Stefan Schneider, Liebherr’s Global Application Manager for Offshore Cranes, said the company is proud to support the energy transition with reliable, locally produced technology.
By equipping wind farm platforms with advanced cranes and smart maintenance tech, Liebherr is playing a direct role in Europe’s shift to cleaner energy. The RL 900 and LiMain system not only improve reliability and cut maintenance costs, but also raise the standard for offshore operations going forward.