The new jetting technology was tested on several monopolies at the Gode Wind 3 site.

Danish energy giant Orsted has launched a new technology at the Gode Wind 3 offshore wind farm in Germany, which could transform offshore wind monopile installation. The new jettying system considerably reduces underwater noise, providing an environmentally and cost-efficient process for installing wind turbine structures.

The patented technology enables the monopile to be placed into the seabed with reduced resistance from the soil, decreasing the requirement for conventional pile driving techniques that typically generate high levels of underwater noise. The technology reduces noise levels by 34 decibels in comparison to traditional methods. This equates to over a 99% decrease, meeting similar levels to the ambient noise of the German Bight in the North Sea.

Industry experts believe this is a major step towards protecting marine life during the construction stage. Orsted has installed 11MW turbines on the new foundations, with Gode Wind 3 to start commercial operations in the second stage of 2024. The pilot project represents the first example of full-scale monopile foundation installation using jetting technology.

The project was a combined effort between Jan De Nul Group and contractor Aarsleff. Orsted is now examining methods to integrate the new technology into other projects with more complex ground conditions. Before adopting it globally, Orsted will require various regulatory approvals.

Patrick Harnett, the VP and COO of Orsted explained that the new technology is a massive game changer for how we develop offshore wind. Once expanded, it could be cheaper, more efficient and quieter than any other monopile installation technology. It also could provide a light foundation as it won’t require a design to meet conventional installation processes.

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