THE world’s first purpose-built wind turbine installation vessel has been welcomed to Hartlepool.
The MPI Adventure, described as the “next generation” of wind turbine installation vessels, arrived at the Port of Hartlepool, which has been appointed as the main construction logistics hub to carry out work on the Teesside Offshore Windfarm Project.
The project, which is being developed by EDF Energy Renewables, requires the vessel to transport 27 turbines out to sea almost a mile off the shore of Redcar.
PD Ports welcomed the vessel into the port of Hartlepool at the end of last month.
More than 1,000 people are involved in the programme, which is expected to be completed in early spring.
Jerry Hopkinson, PD Ports’ managing director, bulks, ports and logistics, said: “The arrival of the MPI Adventure highlights our capability to handle large, industry class offshore vessels at the Port of Hartlepool while further demonstrating our continued progression and growing strength in this sector.”
Peter Robinson, managing director of MPI Offshore, said: “MPI is delighted to be involved with this challenging project and look forward to completing the installation of 27 wind turbines in a safe and timely manner.
“MPI is a locally based ship and construction management organisation seen as premier installer of offshore windfarms.
“We are proud to be part of the PD Ports and EDF Renewable Energy teams in bringing this offshore renewable energy facility to Teesside.”
Tim Bland, EDF Project Manager, added: “EDF are very pleased to welcome the MPI Adventure to the project.
“The vessel is much more weather tolerant than the vessel previously engaged for this work and we believe this offers the best opportunity to complete the build of the offshore Wind Turbines over the Winter period.”