WindPort and Port Esbjerg have entered a strategic partnership to accelerate offshore wind development in Norway, aiming to position WindPort as the marshalling hub for the Sørlige Nordsjø II (SNII) project.
WindPort, based in Mandal, is transitioning from oil and gas to offshore wind, leveraging its location near SNII and strong maritime infrastructure. The collaboration draws on Esbjerg’s experience as one of the world’s leading offshore wind ports.
Turid Storhaug, managing director at WindPort AS (pictured, left), said: “Port Esbjerg is widely regarded as one of the most experienced offshore wind ports globally with unique capabilities. Learning from their experience and know-how enables us to build smarter from the start and position WindPort as a top-tier marshalling hub.”
The partnership will focus on joint project development and knowledge sharing across quay design, logistics, sustainable energy, and new fuel technologies.
Dennis Jul Pedersen, CEO at Port Esbjerg (pictured, right), said: “WindPort has already proven itself as a highly capable maritime hub with strong infrastructure and a clear vision for offshore wind. Together, we can set new standards for how ports support the offshore wind industry – efficiently, sustainably, and smart from the start.”
WindPort currently offers around 200,000 square metres of space, with potential to expand to 1 million square metres across three locations. Its deep, obstruction-free channel allows large offshore vessels easy access to the open sea.
The company’s goal is to serve as the wind turbine generator marshalling and logistics hub for SNII, Norway’s first major offshore wind farm. SNII is expected to host 60–100 turbines with 1.5GW capacity, connected by a 200km HVDC link to the substation at Kvinesdal.
WindPort plans significant quay and infrastructure upgrades supported by a local service ecosystem. Storhaug added: “By collaborating with Port Esbjerg and obtaining knowledge on effective port management, we are not only accelerating our transformation but also contributing to the sustainable energy future of Northern Europe.”