Mammoet has completed what it describes as the world’s first electric-powered transport of a monopile in real-world conditions.
The pilot operation took place at the Port of Ronne in Denmark during the onshore marshalling phase for the Baltica 2 Offshore Wind Farm.
Project developers Ørsted and PGE are jointly overseeing the construction of Baltica 2, while Van Oord is supporting the marshalling activities.
The test involved moving a 1,700t monopile over a distance of 815m.
Mammoet utilised three sets of 26 axle lines of its Self-Propelled Modular Transporters (SPMTs), equipped with XXL Monopile Handling System and powered by three electric Power Pack Units (ePPUs).
According to data collected during the pilot, the system completed the entire transport operation without requiring a recharge or causing delays to the project schedule.
Mammoet global sustainability advisor Niek Bezuijen said: “We were very pleased with the results of the pilot. The transport was completed successfully, without charging and without impacting the project schedule.
“It really demonstrates that we can help offshore wind farm developers to bring down their carbon impacts today, and what will be possible in the future.”
Estimates from Mammoet suggest that using electric monopile transport could reduce diesel consumption by 25,000 to 30,000 litres for a project similar in layout to Baltica 2, representing a reduction of approximately 70t of CO2 emissions.
The operation also involved the use of Mammoet’s MTC1600 cranes, which are designed to lift next-generation monopiles directly into the water.
These cranes can operate on battery power, direct grid connection, or at limited capacity using an SPMT ePPU for backup.
Based on the pilot, the company believes that a single monopile lift could be performed on one ePPU charge.
Mammoet and its partners view this demonstration as a step toward reducing emissions in the logistics chain of offshore wind projects, with future development depending on investment in shore power facilities.
The company has indicated it will continue to work with partners to develop electric solutions for upcoming projects.
Earlier this month, Tokyo Juki and Mammoet Japan entered into a memorandum of understanding to increase access to ultra-heavy lifting services for industrial projects throughout Japan.
