An artificial multifunctional island far at sea

Offshore Service Facilities (OSF) wants to start development of an artificial multifunctional island far at sea as soon as possible. The development, in cooperation with relevant parties should facilitate offshore activities related to the energy and food and transition.

Energy hubs The preparation for the realization of large wind farms at large distance from shore in the North Sea, between 2030 and 2050, is already in full swing. An important part of the plans is the construction and operation of energy hubs at sea. These are hubs for electrical infrastructure and hydrogen plants. The choice here is to construct this in the form of platforms (on jackets) as we know them from offshore oil and gas extraction, or artificial islands or a combination of these. In a letter to the Dutch Parliament, the Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate expressed a preference for jackets.

Multifunctional artificial islands

Especially in the area of offshore construction where Dutch companies are among the frontrunners, no opportunities should be lost by exploring multiple possible implementations of energy hubs. Risk mitigation is key by not betting on one horse for this crucial infrastructure. Artificial islands with multiple functions can play a key role as a hub and base of operations for energy, aquaculture and other related activities. They offer an efficient solution to the logistical and operational challenges of large-scale offshore renewable energy exploitation. A private initiative can unlock further cost advantages, developing activities on an island that are broader than just a government mandate for energy related issues.

Risk mitigation

The realisation of multifunctional energy islands makes working at sea much safer through fewer and shorter sailing routes and safe and comfortable accommodation for technical staff. Many innovations can be developed to benefit from the challenge, optimizing ecology, safety (also for shipping) and working conditions for the involved personnel.

An iconic island

Dutch industries, consultancies and knowledge institutes have the experience, knowledge and expertise to realize an iconic island that is a showcase of innovation, sustainability, excellence engineering and ecological improvement to further facilitate the energy transition.