Offshore wind developer RWE has signed framework agreements with Hitachi Energy and Aibel for the joint supply of three high-voltage direct current (HVDC) systems for offshore windfarms
The agreements relate to HVDC systems for offshore wind projects in RWE’s global development pipeline, which are due to be connected to the grid at the beginning of the next decade.
The agreements include the supply of HVDC systems and construction of offshore platforms. Onshore construction work will be contracted during the development phase of the projects.
Hitachi Energy will supply voltage source converter systems to convert alternating current (AC) to direct current for efficient long-distance transmission to shore, where it will be converted back to AC for the grid. Aibel will be responsible for the engineering, procurement and construction of the offshore platforms.
RWE offshore wind chief executive Sven Utermöhlen said the agreements with Hitachi Energy and Aibel enable the company to secure engineering and production capacity early in the process of developing projects. The agreements will enable Hitachi Energy and Aibel to manage the resources required to deliver the systems, securing supply chain capacity, hiring workforce, allocating engineering and manufacturing capacity and ordering materials ahead of time.
The agreements provide RWE with the potential to procure additional HVDC systems for future offshore wind projects worldwide.
Sign up for Riviera’s series of technical and operational webinars and conferences:
© 2023 Riviera Maritime Media Ltd.