Mammoet, a leader in heavy lifting and transport, has signed an agreement to support Heerema Marine Contractors with the offshore installation of two giant topsides for TenneT’s 2 gigawatt (GW) program.
The 2GW program aims to install fourteen high-voltage direct current (HVDC) offshore grid connection systems in the North Sea by 2032—six in Germany and eight in the Netherlands. These HVDC systems will transmit power generated by North Sea wind farms to the shore, converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) for higher efficiency and reduced cabling.
Under the agreement, Mammoet will assist in preparing the topsides for floatover operations. The process involves skidding the massive structures from a heavy transport vessel (HTV) to Heerema’s new H731 barge using hydraulic skid shoes. Following this, Mammoet’s unique Mega Jack System will lift the topsides to the required floatover height on the H731. A Deck Support Frame, or floatover frame, will then be positioned beneath the topsides to enable their final installation onto jacket foundations.
Richard Verhoeff, Sales Director at Mammoet, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “With this contract, Mammoet will be playing a key role in securing the future of energy in Northern Europe while showcasing our unique capabilities in both high-precision skidding and jacking operations. We are delighted to be working closely with Heerema and thank them for enabling us to play an even greater role in the wider energy transition.”
Martijn Wijdeveld, Director of Supply Chain Management and Procurement at Heerema, added, “Mammoet is a market leader in offshore wind heavy lift and transport, and has proven it has the knowledge, equipment and engineers to manage the world’s biggest projects. We look forward to collaborating with them, benefitting from their vast experience of carrying out heavy lifts and transports safely and efficiently.”