DEME and Prysmian have begun the installation of high-voltage cables for the network operator TenneT in the Veerse Meer lake in the Netherlands. This action is part of the IJmuiden Ver Alpha and Nederwiek 1 grid connection projects, aimed at transferring electricity from offshore wind farms to the shore.
Project Details
Once connected, these cables will directly transfer the electricity generated from future offshore wind farms to the shore. The installation of the cables will be carried out from a custom pontoon that DEME has specifically developed for lake conditions. These pontoons include cable carousels and specialized equipment to simultaneously manage high-voltage cables, spare cables, and fiber optics.
Read more: South Korea Launches 2.2 Gigawatt Offshore Wind Tender
Installation Method and Environmental Impacts
A custom vertical installation method will be used to install the cables to a depth of at least three meters, combined with high-pressure water jets to temporarily fluidize the sand beneath the cable. As the pontoon progresses, the seabed naturally returns to its original state, resulting in reduced water turbidity and any environmental impacts.
The cable installation operations will continue until spring 2027, and it is planned to ensure that the Veerse Meer lake is fully accessible for water sports and recreation during the summer season.
