IQIP, together with EnBW and Vattenfall, has announced that its innovative EQ-Piling will go offshore for its first full-scale monopile installation, marking what it believes is a major milestone in the advancement of offshore wind foundation technology. The installation is anticipated to be a crucial step in validating a reduced noise during installation process without the need for additional bubble curtains – reducing noise levels, and CO2 emissions.
Building on the successful inshore demonstration at Maasvlakte 2 in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, the upcoming offshore installation also represents a critical step towards commercialisation of this low-noise and low-carbon installation method.
The full‑scale monopile installation will take place at the planned Dreekant wind farm in Germany, owned and developed by EnBW. IQIP has contracted DEME (Dredging, Environmental and Marine Engineering NV), to execute the installation using their installation vessel Orion. Vattenfall, a consortium partner alongside IQIP and EnBW, is also supporting the project. Installation of the demonstration monopile is planned to take place during May, subject to issuing of the final permit.
As the project moves toward full‑scale offshore validation, strong momentum is perceived to be building for the commercial application of the technology. Commenting on this next step, IQIP CEO Robert Diepenbroek said: “We have strong confidence in the technology’s potential and commercial application. With the full‑scale monopile installation, we will demonstrate that EQ‑Piling lives up to its promise of being significantly quieter. We will enable a reduction in CO2 emissions by removing the need for additional bubble curtains and the vessels that support them.”
Vattenfall has recognised EQ‑Piling as a promising technology for future offshore wind projects. Like the other partners, Vattenfall receives complete, non‑public data from the full‑scale installation, enabling detailed assessment for upcoming developments. Commenting on the collaboration, Cyril Moss, executive project director for Nordlicht I and II at Vattenfall, said: “At Vattenfall, we advance offshore wind as a key enabler of the energy transition through European industrial capability and genuine innovation. Progress comes when knowledgeable partners at the heart of the industry work together to turn new technology into reality.”
Bas Nekeman, business unit director Foundations Northern Europe, said: “At DEME, innovation and collaboration drive our contribution to a more sustainable offshore wind industry. With Orion, we aim to demonstrate that EQ-Piling can be handled as efficiently as established methods. Clients expect foundations installed to target depth, within tolerances, noise regulations, and budget – with minimum risk.”
