Vattenfall has lined up a consortium comprising Aker Solutions, Siemens Energy Limited and Siemens Energy Global to supply grid infrastructure for its 3.6GW Norfolk offshore wind projects off England's east coast.
It named engineering firm Aker Solutions and gas and power company Siemens Energy’s UK and global units as preferred bidder to jointly deliver HVDC (high-voltage direct-current) converter platforms for the projects’ grid infrastructure.
The Swedish developer explained that HVDC technology is the most efficient way of transporting large volumes of electricity over long distances to join onshore networks.
Its decision enables local supply chains to discuss subcontracting opportunities with Aker Solutions and the relevant Siemens Energy divisions, Vattenfall added.
The 1800MW Norfolk Vanguard and 1396MW Norfolk Boreas (Phase 1) projects are expected to deliver first power to the grid in the mid-to-late 2020s.
A turbine supplier has not yet been named, but the projects will comprise 180-312 turbines, with the nearest turbines 47km from the shore, Vattenfall stated. This number of units implies machines with average power ratings of 11.5-20MW.
Vattenfall is considering selling stakes in the two projects to reduce its net investments over the next two years.
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