DNV is supporting Elia as the construction tender for the project, which will receive renewable energy generated offshore, convert it to consumable power and deliver it to Europe. Completion of the island is expected mid-2026. From 2026-2027, Elia will start the construction of the electrical infrastructure to connect offshore wind and allow for DC interconnectors. DNV is undertaking independent assessment of the island’s design, providing Elia with guidance on any improvements required to minimize risk throughout its construction and operation through a combination of workshops and continuous assurance reviews.
With this project, offshore wind is entering a new era. Connecting offshore wind farms to transmission hubs such as artificial energy islands will improve electricity flows across Europe and enable the development of large-scale, cost-effective, and sustainable wind production and transmission at sea. Elia’s energy island, which will handle up to 3.5 gigawatts of offshore wind power, will have a seabed footprint of a maximum of 25 hectares and at the surface around 7 hectares in waters about 18 meters deep.