A more innovative way to install offshore wind farms
Installing an offshore wind farm is a massive logistical challenge. With unpredictable weather, tight schedules, and complex marine operations, delays can lead to financial losses and setbacks in the energy transition. A slight miscalculation can mean millions in extra costs.
That’s where Metis, a simulation tool developed by Heerema Engineering Solutions, comes in. Designed to optimize offshore wind farm construction, Metis provides developers with a detailed, data-driven approach to installation planning. And now, it’s receiving international recognition. Our community member, Heerema Engineering Solutions, has been nominated for the prestigious Ventus Awards in the “Advancement in Project Siting & Development” category.
Managing offshore wind installation risks
Building an offshore wind farm requires precise coordination. What if a critical vessel is delayed? What if bad weather halts progress? What if simultaneous operations cause bottlenecks?
Traditionally, project planners rely on experience and static models to estimate timelines. But these methods don’t always account for real-world complexity. Metis changes this by simulating possible scenarios, ensuring that offshore wind projects are completed on time and within budget.
Metis: Advanced simulation for smarter planning
Metis is a complex event simulation tool, meaning it can simulate complex marine operations in real time. It enables developers to:
- Predict delays before they happen
- Optimize construction schedules
- Identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies
- Improve CAPEX estimation accuracy
By integrating all aspects of offshore installation, from seabed conditions to vessel logistics, Metis provides an overview of project feasibility, ensuring that developers can submit competitive bids and execute projects efficiently.
And Metis has already played a key role in the early-phase development of offshore wind farms across the globe. In one case, a client used Metis to analyze environmental and regulatory constraints, test different construction strategies, and develop a cost-effective plan that optimized installation timing. The result? A robust and competitive bid that positioned them strongly.
A prestigious recognition
The Ventus Awards celebrate the most innovative technologies and solutions advancing the offshore wind industry. This year’s award ceremony will take place on April 29 in Virginia, US, with finalists representing top innovators across the global offshore wind supply chain.
With Metis, Heerema Engineering Solutions is shaping the future of offshore wind installation: minimizing risk and maximizing efficiency.
Learn more about Heerema Engineering Solutions
As an accelerator, Buccaneer Delft proudly supports innovative companies in the ever-evolving energy & maritime sectors. We are committed to helping sustainable ideas grow and transform into commercial products and solutions, serving as a bridge between the existing industries and innovations. Our community impacts the energy transition with technological innovations transforming the industry. Learn more about our accelerator services.