German clean energy asset manager Luxcara has finalized a preferred supplier agreement with China's Mingyang Smart Energy. The deal will see the supply of 16 of the world's most powerful offshore wind turbines for the Waterkant offshore wind project in the German North Sea. The turbines, each boasting a capacity of up to 18.5 MW, are scheduled for installation in 2028.
Technical Specifications and Environmental Commitment
The Mingyang wind turbines, chosen after an international tender process and a comprehensive due diligence exercise, have a rotor diameter of 260 meters. This design is expected to maximize energy production from the site. Notably, the manufacturing process for these turbines will utilize 100 percent renewable energy, reinforcing Luxcara's commitment to sustainability.
Selection Process and Compliance
Luxcara's rigorous selection process included evaluating the supply chain, ensuring ESG compliance with EU taxonomy, and assessing cyber security measures. This was supported by leading consultancies DNV and KPMG.
“By deciding for the world’s most powerful offshore wind turbine, we will be able to expedite Germany’s energy transition while fostering much-needed competition in the industry”.
Expressed by Holger Matthiesen, Project Director at Luxcara and Managing Director of the project company Waterkant Energy. He further emphasized that the management, operation, and control of the Waterkant wind farm would remain entirely in the hands of an independent German company.
Background and Project Scope
Luxcara's successful participation in the German offshore wind auction in August 2023 secured the rights for the Waterkant Energy project on the N-6.7 site. This area, located in the German Exclusive Economic Zone, is adjacent to a cluster of existing offshore wind farms, approximately 90 kilometers from Borkum Island.
Impact and Future Goals
The Waterkant offshore wind project is poised to generate clean electricity for approximately 400,000 households. This initiative is a crucial step towards Germany's ambitious goal of achieving an 80 percent renewable energy share in the national power mix by 2030. The project's significant capacity and advanced technology are expected to play a pivotal role in expediting Germany's energy transition.
Conclusion
The selection of the world's most powerful wind turbines for the Waterkant offshore wind project marks a milestone in the renewable energy sector. With robust technical specifications, a commitment to sustainable manufacturing, and strategic project management, this initiative is set to contribute significantly to Germany's renewable energy targets and the broader global effort towards sustainable energy solutions.
