With floating wind farms being the new kid on the block new questions arise. For example, how are we going to maintain these novel constructions?

In addition, conventional wind turbines are getting bigger and are being built in large quantities. Therefore, the intensity and complexity of maintenance is going to increase.

For this reason, Mammoet and Offshore Wind Innovators, in close cooperation with TKI Wind op Zee, are launching the 5th Offshore Wind Innovation Challenge.

The Innovation Challenge will focus on finding solutions for the safe and efficient transfer of objects from a floating vessel to offshore wind structures, to reduce the cost and the scheduled impact of maintenance. This will help to facilitate better and more cost-effective replacement of turbine components. The use of large (floating) installation vessels should be prevented and therefore we are looking to possible solutions to overcome this.

The challenge can be split into three different sub-sections:
From November 10th, 2021, until January 7th, 2022, SME entrepreneurs can apply for this challenge. They can then present their idea or proven (complete or partial) solution during the Pitch & Ask session in January.

  • How do you position the barge, ship, or vessel close to the wind turbine foundation, floater, or tower?
  • How do you transfer the components required for maintenance from a barge, ship or vessel onto the wind turbine structure, or floating foundation?
  • How do you transfer/ lift the components towards the nacelle?

Thereafter, until April 2nd companies can optimize their solutions, receiving feedback and collaborating with professionals of Mammoet and TKI Wind op Zee during the Bootcamp in April. The finalists will be invited to pitch their developed concept to a broad audience during the Innovation Challenge Finals in May 2022.

The participants will be able to create brand awareness and visibility of their innovations in the offshore wind community. In addition, they will get expert coaching and the chance of collaborating with Mammoet and its subsidiary company Conbit.

The first four editions of the Offshore Wind Innovation Challenge led to partnerships between almost all winners and leading companies, which is the goal and strength of this challenge.