Fugro’s scope includes the collection and analysis of Geo-data to assess the seabed and subsurface conditions northwest of Borkum Island. Geophysical surveys will deliver detailed mapping of the seabed and shallow subsurface, identifying features relevant to the early-stage design and any potential geological risks. Geotechnical investigations will involve in situ testing and soil sampling to evaluate seabed composition.
The integration of both geophysical and geotechnical results will support key areas of the wind farm design process, including foundation engineering, structural assessments, subsea cable routing, and overall risk management during construction and future operations. Fugro stated that these data sets are essential for the technical planning and successful implementation of offshore wind infrastructure.
This latest contract builds on Fugro’s earlier work in the region, including geotechnical investigations for the Nordseecluster offshore wind project, where RWE holds a 51% share. Fugro has also conducted preliminary studies for the German Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH), providing additional context for the current assignments.
In August 2024, RWE obtained development rights for offshore wind projects at the N-9.1 and N-9.2 sites. In the months that followed, TotalEnergies agreed to purchase a 50% interest in the Windbostel Ost and Windbostel West projects. The wind farms are situated approximately 110 kilometers northwest of Borkum Island, near the border of the Netherlands’ exclusive economic zone.
According to the project website, investment decisions for Windbostel Ost and Windbostel West are scheduled for 2027 and 2028, respectively. Pending permit approvals and confirmation of grid connections, offshore construction could begin in 2029 for Windbostel Ost and 2030 for Windbostel West. Full commissioning is targeted for 2031 and 2032.
In a related development, TotalEnergies was recently awarded rights to the N-9.4 site in the German North Sea. This area, with a capacity potential of 1 GW, is located near the N-9.1 and N-9.2 sites, further strengthening the company’s offshore wind portfolio in the region.
These projects reflect continued collaboration between industry leaders and the increasing role of offshore wind energy in Europe’s renewable energy strategy.
