Offshore wind fabricator Smulders and German shipbuilder Neptun Werft are to join forces to set up a new facility in the port of Rostock to build offshore converter platforms.
The Belgian steel specialist will establish the joint venture with the Meyer Group subsidiary at the latter’s Warnemünde site.
The new company will create up to 100 jobs and will add additional capacity in the European supply chain for the platforms.
Neptun Werft’s production areas are also being adapted to the new business segment and the company has already purchased the former site of the engine manufacturer Caterpillar, which is directly adjacent.
In addition, part of the neighboring marine arsenal will be also used by the joint venture.
“We will also continue to invest in the Warnemünde site and adapt the shipyard facilities to the requirements of converter platform construction, for example the quay facilities and crane capacities,” added Jan Meyer.
The joint venture is still subject to regulatory approval from the competition authorities and is expected to be operational during the first quarter of 2024.
The partners said the yard will enable Mecklenburg-Vorpommern to make a significant contribution to Germany’s green energy supply.
“At the same time, the construction of this critical infrastructure in Germany will create independence in the energy sector,” they added.
“We are combining the MEYER Group’s expertise in lean shipbuilding with Smulders’ offshore experience in a unique way. Together, we are creating the necessary capacities to be able to manufacture the converter platforms required for the energy transition in Germany,” added Meyer.
Smulders managing director Raf Iemants said: “”Today marks the beginning of a transformative partnership in the offshore wind sector. United by a common vision and driven by the urgent need to combat climate change, our collaboration was catalyzed by the belief that together, we can make a significant impact on the future of clean energy.
“Our corporate goals align seamlessly, guided by a commitment to sustainability and innovation, and our shared mission to harness the power of the wind. As we embark on this journey, we are resolute in our energy transmission goals, aiming to create a robust and efficient offshore grid that will not only power homes and industries but also power the dream of a cleaner, greener tomorrow.”