Global Operations: From Australia to the North Sea
Recently, the Boskalis trailing suction hopper dredger, Gateway, transitioned from operations at the Port of Melbourne, Australia, to a significant new project in the North Sea. This move, covering approximately 10,000 nautical miles, showcases Boskalis’ global operational capabilities. Currently positioned off the coast of the Netherlands, Gateway plays a pivotal role in preparing for the installation of two major export power cables integral to the Hollandse Kust (west Beta) offshore wind project by TenneT.
Dredging Operations: Paving the Path for Renewable Energy
In 2022, Boskalis deployed the world’s largest and most powerful backhoe dredger, Magnor, to clear obstacles along the designated cable routes. This year, the focus shifts to Gateway, which continues the task of pre-sweep dredging along the same 60-kilometer routes. These preliminary dredging efforts are essential for laying the groundwork for the offshore wind farm, ensuring a clear path for the upcoming cable-laying phase.
Installation of Export and Interconnector Cables
The operation progresses with the involvement of Boskalis’ specialized vessels—Ndurance and Giant 7 for laying cables, and Ndeavor for cable burial. These vessels are crucial for the installation of export cables that will connect the TenneT offshore platforms to the Dutch onshore electrical grid. Additionally, Boskalis is set to install a 9-kilometer-long, 66kV interconnector cable, further linking the Hollandse Kust (west Alpha) and Hollandse Kust (west Beta) platforms, thus enhancing the energy transmission infrastructure between the offshore wind farms.
This strategic engagement of Boskalis in the North Sea not only highlights its expertise in maritime operations but also underscores its commitment to advancing renewable energy infrastructure on a global scale.