Hornsea 3 - onshore cabling for wind farm
VolkerFitzpatrick is installing 208 km of onshore cables at what will become the world’s largest offshore wind zone upon completion. Once operational, Hornsea 3 will boast an impressive capacity of 2.9 GW, generating an abundance of low-cost, clean, renewable electricity capable of powering more than 3.3 million UK homes.
The project
The works are being carried out on behalf of Ørsted, the world’s leading sustainable energy company, with support from VolkerStevin and VolkerTrenchless Solutions.
The project includes the installation of 208 km of onshore cables across a 52km long route, linking the offshore wind farm from its landfall at Weybourne in Norfolk to the Norwich Main National Grid Substation. This extensive contract includes a range of civil works associated with cable installation, National Grid connection, and comprehensive land reinstatement, including tree and hedgerow planting.
The project is due to be completed around spring 2026.
The process
The first delivery of cables in February 2024 marked a significant milestone. Meticulous planning had been undertaken to ensure the seamless transition of each drum to its designated position within the site yard, facilitating efficient transportation to the project site in the correct order.
Community benefits
Considerate Constructors Scheme
The project received an outstanding score of 45 points out of 45 by the Considerate Constructors Scheme. The site team achieved this high score by demonstrating how it protects the environment, values the workforce, and provides a wide range of social value enterprises.
British Energy Security Strategy
Hornsea 3 will significantly contribute to the UK Government's ambitious goal of reaching 50 GW of operational offshore wind capacity by 2030, as outlined in the British Energy Security Strategy. Positioned 121km off the Yorkshire coast, Hornsea 3, along with Hornsea 1 and 2, will form Ørsted's expansive Hornsea zone, boasting a total capacity exceeding 5 GW. This monumental achievement solidifies its status as the world’s largest offshore wind zone, providing sustainable electricity to more than five million UK homes.