Heerema Marine Contractors has installed the topside, the final piece of the Offshore Converter Station, on behalf of Aker Solutions at ScottishPower Renewables’ East Anglia THREE offshore wind farm. The company used its semi-submersible crane vessel Sleipnir and drones to execute the heavy lift operation.
Measuring 34 metres in width and 48 metres in height, the 10,300 metric tonne topside structure completes the Offshore Converter Station located off the coast of Suffolk in the southern North Sea.
This achievement follows the installation of the jacket foundation in August 2025, also carried out by Sleipnir. The four-legged steel structure, weighing approximately 3500 metric tonnes and standing 59 metres tall, was fabricated at Aker Solutions’ Verdal yard in Norway.
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Drone support
A notable innovation during this installation was the deployment of Heerema’s new in-house drone operations. These drones provided real-time aerial assistance to both the superintendent and crane drivers, enhancing visibility and situational awareness throughout the lift. This added layer of support contributed to improved safety, precision, and coordination during the complex offshore procedure.
From early planning to execution, the teams of Heerema Marine Contractors, Aker Solutions and ScottishPower Renewables worked in close coordination to ensure safety, precision, and efficiency.
Picture: Heerema Marine Contractors’ Sleipnir is lifting the topside into place (photo by Heerema Marine Contractors).
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