ELWIND, a joint Estonian-Latvian cross-border offshore wind project, has engaged Haskoning to prepare the general concept for its two planned wind farms in the Baltic Sea.
Launched in 2019, the ELWIND offshore wind project is a joint state-run initiative aimed at boosting the energy independence of Estonia and Latvia. The 700-1,000 MW (up to 2 GW total) project aims to start construction by 2028, with commissioning anticipated by somewhere between 2030 and 2035.
To support the general design of the wind farms, ELWIND has selected Haskoning as its lead partner. Haskoning’s work will include layout optimization, transmission grid studies and integration of site investigations and environmental assessment. The engineering and consulting group will execute the project together with subcontractor Empire Engineering, who is responsible for designing the foundations of the wind turbines.
“A well-designed wind farm is essential to inform decision-making and prepare the project for subsequent development phases,” noted Haskoning in a statement. “Drawing on our extensive experience with offshore wind in the North Sea, we are delighted to support offshore wind development in the Baltic region.”
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Haskoning has over 6,800 people across more than 25 countries. The firm has been involved in previous development stages of the ELWIND project, including a technical assessment on the cables needed to connect the wind farm to the transmission grid.