The Dutch IHC IQIP is investing in the BLUE Piling technology for driving the foundation piles of offshore wind turbines into the seabed.
IHC IQIP has decided to join forces with Jasper Winkes, the developer of the BLUE Hammer , as it believes this technology “has a big future” and is a logical step in the further development and growth of offshore wind.
According to Winkes, the market has shown great interest in the technique: “I’m delighted we have the chance to bring this technology to maturity and in that way help make our energy production economically and ecologically sustainable.”
BLUE Piling can be used to drive piles for offshore wind farms using hydropower instead of the traditional steel ram, and tests have shown that this technique is the future, but some adjustments are required for commercial use, IHC IQIP said.
The Dutch company added it will start working with a modernized version of the technology and positive results are expected soon.
“The further development of the BLUE Piling Technology is fully compatible with our core competence. The technology has huge potential and is a truly innovative addition to our range of products and services in this market,” said Jan Albert Westerbeek , Executive Director of IHC IQIP.
“We can use it to really help our customers further develop the offshore market and ultimately reduce the price per megawatt. We’ll continue to develop the BLUE Piling Technology with Jasper Winkes and his team. We’re not just an investor, we want to contribute to this technology with our expertise and knowledge of the market.”