In harmony
with nature
With Ecowende, we will take a huge step by building an offshore wind farm in harmony with nature. By doing so, we want to help make a positive contribution to biodiversity and thus accelerate the large-scale roll-out of offshore wind in the Netherlands and beyond. Ecology will be leading because we know that renewable energy must become more sustainable.
Greening the demand
for electricity
The Ecowende wind farm (Hollandse Kust (west) lot VI) will be located about 53 kilometres off the Dutch coast, near Ijmuiden. With an installed capacity of approximately 760 MW, we can make about 3% of the current Dutch electricity demand greener. The plan is to commission the wind farm in 2026.
A flourishing
ecosystem
For Ecowende and other future wind farms, we envision a flourishing ecosystem, with minimal impact on birds and bats and an undisturbed underwater world.
At the same time, we are realising one of the largest offshore field labs in the world. This pilot project of ecological measures has a positive ecological impact, generates knowledge, and increases understanding and support in the Netherlands.
To really make an impact, we will ensure that the knowledge we gain from monitoring and research into the effect of the ecological measures is widely accessible. For scientists, for policymakers, for nature organisations and for the wider public. But also for other wind farm developers in the offshore sector.
The guiding principle in the design and construction of the Ecowende wind farm is to have as little impact as possible on birds, bats, and marine life. This is, for example, done by:
- Creating a corridor for birds by placing the wind turbines extra far apart;
- Using innovative foundation techniques for wind turbines that minimise the impact on marine mammals and marine life;
- Placing natural reef structures on the seabed to stimulate biodiversity; and
- Working with a group of scientists and experts to implement dozens of innovative solutions and evaluate existing knowledge gaps about the ecological impact of offshore wind.
A new
ecological benchmark
Ecowende wants to create a new ecological benchmark for the development and construction of wind farms at the North Sea and make it possible to build offshore wind farms in the future that have a “net positive impact” on nature. This is important because there are big ambitions for offshore wind. An acceleration is needed, in a way that contributes to nature above and below water.
Preparations are
in full swing
We are currently busy with the preparation of our operations. More details about Ecowende and the respective investments, innovations and research programmes will be announced at a later stage.