Strategic partners Roll Group & Hebetec Engineering have unveiled their shared patented solution for floating offshore wind farm load-outs. This solution was developed to provide efficient and cost-effective solutions to the logistical challenges of large and heavy offshore wind farm components.

Roll Group and Hebetec Engineering AG have a strategic corporation agreement which focuses on the global demand for renewable and civil construction solutions.

FoWeLo, as the solution is called, uses innovative equipment and technology to tackle a very real and current challenge: the high costs and high dependency for loading out offshore floating wind foundations.

The patented system was developed to solve the high cost and port logistics constraints of launching floating offshore wind foundations. The system features a robust design using existing hydraulic equipment and temporary steel structures. It is designed to be fully containerized, with no restrictions due to tidal effects, which simplifies mobilization and ensures low CO2 emissions by using seawater as a counterweight.

“We definitely believe that the FoWeLo system is an innovative solution for an industry that faces high transportation costs. As floating offshore foundations are the only option for offshore wind in many countries, we have a role to play and aim to develop innovative technical solutions. The FoWeLo system is a price competitive option and will increase the load out speed of the foundations” says Steven Dunnewijk, CEO Hebetec Engineering AG.

Roll Group CEO Peter Rondhuis adds, “We are delighted that we have designed the FoWeLo system in cooperation with our partner Hebetec Engineering AG. Within this strategic alliance, we have complementary skills and competencies that lead to a great synergy between both companies. The FoWeLo solution uses existing gantry, mooring and ballasting equipment from Roll Group, whereas the strand jacks and APS skidding equipment are provided by Hebetec Engineering AG. This – together with our combined engineering skills and market know-how makes us the perfect partners for this invention.”