Clients: SSE Renewables, Pensioenfonds ABP, APG
Date: 2024
Location: Dutch North Sea
Bax’s Circular Industry team is proud to have supported Noordzeker—a consortium of SSE Renewables, Pensioenfonds ABP, and APG—in securing a permit to develop a 2 GW wind farm at the IJmuiden Ver Alpha site in the Netherlands, capable of generating enough energy to meet approximately 7% of the country’s current electricity demand.
Traditional offshore wind projects have largely focused on cost-effective energy generation without fully addressing the environmental impact of materials used throughout the lifecycle of the wind energy farm. At Bax, we recognise the potential of circularity to transform the wind energy sector. By integrating practices that reduce waste and enhance resource efficiency, circularity redefines wind farm design for environmental sustainability and supply chain security. However, implementing these principles at scale poses a unique set of challenges, requiring innovative solutions to optimise resource use and extend component lifespans.
Approach
Bax helped Noordzeker embed circularity into every phase of the IJmuiden Ver Alpha project, from design to end-of-life recycling strategies. Working with our partners, we focused on optimising turbine components for reusability and recycling, contributing to long-term sustainability and reducing resource dependence. Circularity played a prominent role in the Netherlands Enterprise Agency’s evaluation, constituting 10% of the overall bid criteria. This emphasis allowed us to demonstrate how sustainability can align with economic objectives, setting a new standard for offshore wind projects.
Impact
Located 62 kilometres off the coast of IJmuiden, the IJmuiden Ver Alpha project is set to create a new benchmark for responsible offshore wind development. Key anticipated outcomes include:
- Environmental benefits: Reduced resource usage and waste through circular design and material reuse, lowering the project’s environmental impact.
- Energy production: With a 2GW capacity, the wind farm will meet approximately 7% of the Netherlands’ current electricity needs.
- Economic impact: Circular practices promise long-term cost savings and align with market demands for sustainable energy solutions.
This pioneering project is expected to be operational by the end of the decade. We look forward to supporting the consortium as they advance circularity in renewable energy and contribute to a sustainable energy future.
