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Drydocks World, in partnership with GE Vernova, has been awarded a significant contract to develop and install Ostwind 4, a 2 GW offshore wind farm designed to power approximately 2 million homes in Germany.
The project, operated by 50Hertz Transmission, marks a milestone in Germany’s renewable energy ambitions, connecting Baltic Sea wind farms to the national grid through advanced high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology. Notably, it will be the first implementation of a 525 kV HVDC system in the Baltic Sea, enhancing efficiency in long-distance energy transmission.
Located 30 kilometers northeast of Rügen Island, Ostwind 4 involves constructing offshore and onshore converter stations and a 110-kilometer direct current (DC) cable system linking land and sea infrastructure.
Drydocks World’s Role in Sustainable Infrastructure
As part of the project, Dubai-based Drydocks World, a DP World subsidiary, will handle engineering, procurement, construction, and installation of the topsides and cover structures for the wind farms. These topsides will be fabricated at Drydocks World’s facility in Dubai and integrated with advanced European-manufactured equipment before being transported and installed in German waters.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, emphasized the importance of the project:
“Drydocks World’s pivotal role in Ostwind 4 underscores its technical excellence and commitment to sustainable infrastructure development. This award aligns with DP World’s mission to drive clean energy transitions and economic growth.”
Captain Rado Antolovic, CEO of Drydocks World, added:
“We are honored to support Germany’s shift to sustainable energy by delivering state-of-the-art marine infrastructure that embodies engineering excellence and environmental stewardship.”
GE Vernova’s Advanced Technology
GE Vernova will supply cutting-edge HVDC technology, including voltage source converters (VSCs), transformers, SF6-free gas-insulated switchgear, and grid automation equipment. The innovative offshore substation design includes a U-shaped substructure capable of supporting decades of offshore wind power generation.
Philippe Piron, CEO of GE Vernova’s Electricity business, highlighted the project’s significance:
“This milestone infrastructure project underscores the critical role of offshore wind in ensuring European energy security and accelerating the global energy transition. It showcases our commitment to advancing Germany’s renewable energy goals and setting new standards for sustainable grid infrastructure.”
A New Era for Baltic Sea Wind Energy
Stefan Kapferer, CEO of 50Hertz Transmission, described the project as pioneering:
“The Ostwind 4 project marks a new chapter in the use of wind energy in the Baltic Sea. With the introduction of 2 GW/525 kV technology, we aim to fully exploit the offshore wind energy potential in the region while fostering interconnected solutions across national borders.”
The project aligns with Germany’s push for renewable energy, supported by international cooperation and state-of-the-art technology. Ostwind 4 is set to play a crucial role in decarbonizing energy systems and bolstering Europe’s energy security.
