DEME is a world leader in the highly specialized fields of dredging and land reclamation, solutions for the offshore energy market, environmental and infra marine works. With more than 140 years of experience and 5,200 highly skilled professionals, we have built up a vast bank of knowledge and expertise which has allowed us to foster a pioneering approach throughout our history. This enables us to bring tailor-made solutions, innovation and new technologies to our customers’ projects, ensuring that they are performed safely, efficiently and cost-effectively.
DEME Offshore US has entering into a long-term agreement with motion compensation specialist Barge Master to develop technology that will be deployed in a pioneering feeder concept on the Vineyard Wind 1 project – the first commercial-scale offshore wind farm in the U.S. The technology that will be deployed is a pioneering feeder concept to be installed at the Vineyard Wind 1 project. In 2021 DEME Offshore US secured a transport and installation contract for the 62 GE Haliade offshore wind turbines for the Vineyard Wind 1 project, which is located off the coast of Massachusetts. In addition to the installation of the turbines, DEME Offshore will also handle the transportation and installation of the monopile foundations, transition pieces, offshore substation and scour protection for the wind turbine foundations, as well as the offshore substation foundation and platform.
DEME will use an integrated, high-tech solution to enable the wind turbine components to be transported from U.S. ports to DEME’s specialized offshore installation vessels. When arriving alongside the installation vessel the Barge Master motion compensation technology ensures safe lifting operations – even for these giant components – and increases workability..
DEME Offshore US has developed special seafastening releasing technology and new lifting tools in close collaboration with GE and Barge Master. DEME Offshore US, Foss Maritime and Barge Master are set to launch the new concept, which utilizes two fully-equipped smart feeder barges, in spring 2023.
The Barge Master concept is based on using patented technology, with control systems and cylinders supporting a platform and actively compensating the motions of the barge. The wind turbine components are fastened to the motion compensated platform. Barge Master has two existing and proven platforms that have already been used on several offshore energy projects already.
At Hofmann & Schweitzer, we will continue to update you on the status of where and when these excellent construction and maritime job opportunities in the wind energy development field will occur. We will be there for the needs of labor if disaster strikes you and your family.