Renewable energy

Our climate is changing. The world needs more and different energy sources. With the oceans covering over 70% of the Earth’s surface, they are the largest collector and retainer of the sun’s vast energy – and the largest powerhouse on the planet.

IHC Merwede supplies specific solutions in the production chain for new sources of energy at sea. That includes equipment for installing offshore wind turbines and the technology for tidal energy. Given market demand, these activities in particular will expand further.

Wind energy

Offshore sites are particularly suitable for wind farms due to the stronger and more constant winds of recent times. However, construction costs are considerably higher, and with a growing demand for wind energy, the offshore wind farms are increasing in size. This presents several challenges for the installation and maintenance of the wind turbines. IHC Merwede develops and supplies advanced equipment and innovative vessels as reliable solutions to meet these challenges.

Tidal energy

The market for tidal energy is relatively young, but developing extremely quickly. Several major companies are investing valuable time and financial resource into the development of new products and systems. Although the current benefits of tidal energy are not yet comparable to those of wind energy, it is expected to prove its value in the next few years.

The major advantage over wind energy is the constant and predictable factor of the tides. As the technology innovator, IHC Merwede is also working on various key components and suitable production methods for this new and dynamic market.

Combining our strength

Within IHC Merwede, IHC Offshore Wind combines the strength of various business units to provide innovative vessels, advanced equipment and consultancy services for the construction, operation and maintenance of offshore wind farms and – among others – tidal energy projects. Along with the supply of special advanced installation equipment, new concepts are being developed for the next generation of floating offshore wind installation vessels.

IHC Merwede’s ultimate goal is to deliver added value to customers by promoting and linking the specialist skills and vast experience at its disposal within the group to create innovative tools for challenging projects.

OWTIS

In collaboration with W3G Marine, IHC Merwede is designing a new offshore wind turbine installation ship (OWTIS). The OWTIS concept has the ability to improve offshore safety by enabling fewer tasks to be performed offshore. The purpose-designed OWTIS will be able to install fully assembled wind turbines in one lift onto pre-installed foundations.