News

225 days ago

SOFIA OFFSHORE WIND FARM: CONSTRUCTION MILESTONES AND RECYLABLE BLADES!

RWE, one of the world’s leading offshore wind energy companies, has made significant strides in the construction of the 1.4-gigawatt (GW) Sofia offshore wind farm located off the UK’s east coast, on the Dogger Bank. With several major milestones recently achieved, this project stands as a testament to the rapid growth of offshore wind energy and the crucial role it plays in driving global sustainability efforts.

The Sofia wind farm project has made impressive progress in recent months, with the completion of foundations and the installation of key electrical systems, both onshore and offshore. With turbine installations scheduled to begin in the coming weeks, the farm is on track to generate its first power later this year. This is a significant moment not just for RWE, but for the entire offshore wind industry, as Sofia is set to become one of the largest offshore wind farms globally.

Cutting Edge Technology Driving the Project

A recent addition to the project was the arrival of the Wind Peak, a state-of-the-art turbine installation vessel designed by Cadeler. This vessel will transport and install the first of Sofia’s massive 14-megawatt turbines. Capable of handling some of the largest turbines in the industry, the Wind Peak is a key innovation in improving installation efficiency. It can carry up to seven turbines per load, reducing the number of trips required and helping accelerate the installation process while minimising the overall environmental impact.

In addition to its impressive size and capabilities, the Wind Peak vessel underscores the growing trend of technological advancements in the offshore wind industry. Its efficiency not only reduces costs but also contributes to the project’s sustainability by minimising its carbon footprint.

Recyclable Blades: A Leap Toward Sustainability

A remarkable feature of the Sofia wind farm is its use of 150 recyclable wind turbine blades, produced by Siemens Gamesa in Hull. These blades are a breakthrough in lifecycle sustainability, incorporating advanced resin technology that allows for efficient material separation and reuse at the end of their lifecycle. This innovation is set to redefine the offshore wind industry, making Sofia the first project in UK waters to utilise recyclable blades.

Marc Becker, Head of Offshore at Siemens Gamesa, commented, “As wind energy becomes a cornerstone of the global energy transition, more than one million tons of blade material is expected to be installed annually. Our recyclable blades can give those materials a second use. At Hull, we are proud to be producing 150 recyclable blades for Sofia. This is a major landmark moment: Sofia, one of the largest offshore wind farms in the world, will be the first in UK waters to feature this industry-leading innovation.”

By adopting these cutting-edge recyclable blades, RWE is not only enhancing the environmental credentials of the Sofia wind farm but also setting a new industry standard for sustainability. This commitment to sustainable innovation is part of RWE’s broader ambition to transition toward a circular economy within the renewable energy sector.

A Step Toward a Sustainable Future

Sven Utermöhlen, CEO of RWE Offshore Wind, emphasised the importance of the Sofia project. "Sofia is RWE’s largest offshore construction project globally and remains on track and on budget to generate first power this year. This impressive progress reflects the expertise of our RWE team and the strong support of our supply chain partners, ensuring the successful delivery of flagship projects like Sofia. For the UK particularly, the achievement of these latest milestones demonstrates RWE’s crucial role in deploying offshore wind in support of the UK Government’s Clean Power targets by 2030. Through partnerships with companies like Siemens Gamesa in Hull, RWE is able to support jobs and prosperity within coastal communities and is a tangible example of the value of offshore wind to the UK’s economy.”

RWE’s investment in offshore wind power extends beyond the Sofia project. Currently, the company operates 10 offshore wind farms across the UK, with nine additional projects in development. These projects represent a combined potential installed capacity of approximately 9.8 GW, with RWE’s share totaling 7 GW. As the company continues to expand its offshore wind portfolio, RWE remains at the forefront of the global energy transition, harnessing the power of wind to meet the world’s growing demand for clean energy.

With innovative technologies, local partnerships, and a strong commitment to sustainability, RWE’s Sofia offshore wind farm is poised to be a game-changer in the renewable energy sector, setting new standards for both environmental responsibility and economic growth.

For further information regarding Sofia Offshore Wind Farm, or offshore wind opportunities, please reach out to one of the team here.

Sources:

RWE Renewables

Latest Jobs

Offshore Wind

Senior Surveyor

Offshore - Belgium

An experienced Offshore Senior Surveyor is required to support offshore construction and excavation operations. The role will involve vessel-based survey execution, equipment setup, data collection, and reporting to ensure safe and precise delivery of marine works. Key Responsibilities: Perform pre-mobilisation of Echoscope setup and survey pole mechanisms in Belgium. Conduct vessel positioning services onboard a multicat during mass flow excavation and rock bag installation campaigns. Operate Echoscope USE software to visualise excavation tools and installed rock bags. Use Qinsy for online navigation, data logging, and line tracking. Perform PLGR work, including manual layback calculations for the pre-lay grapnel train and load cell data reporting. Prepare daily and project reports on survey operations and results. Candidate Profile: Minimum of 7 years’ experience as a surveyor within marine or offshore construction environments. Strong practical knowledge of modern measurement techniques and hydrographic survey systems. Proficient in AutoCAD and Qinsy navigation software. Bachelor’s degree in Surveying, Geomatics, Construction (topography specialisation), or a related field. Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively within a team. Fluent in English (spoken and written); other languages are an advantage. Certifications Required: Valid GWO certification. Offshore medical certificate. Schengen visa or EU citizenship.

Offshore Wind

PPA & Revenue Manager

Germany - Germany

Our client are seeking a PPA & Revenue Manager in our Commercial Team who contributes to our PPA and revenue execution and delivery across their core countries. The candidate should have a good understanding of energy markets and revenue management. In addition, the candidate will bring excellent process, analytical as well communication skills. Key Responsibilities: You are serving as point of contact for PPA counterparties and liaison to accounting, asset management and external service providers Act as interface to transmission system operator for operating assets Oversee seamless monthly settlement and invoicing, incl. optimizing revenue streams, ensuring accurate financial reporting and developing and maintaining systems for tracking and managing PPA contracts Obtain GoOs, other certifications and manage additional revenues, ancillary services Review of revenue management of third parties for assets not managed by our client Ensure timely and diligent completion of reporting (e.g., EMIR, REMIT), and compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., EEG compliance / Marktstammdatenregister / Dodd-Frank compliance) Provide input on revenue assumptions for the annual budgeting process Furthermore, you are driving automation and improvement of commercial workflows, incl. invoicing etc. Establish standards and tools to reduce manual labor and increase efficiency Qualifications & Education You have successfully completed a relevant degree in business, economics, engineering, mathematics or a comparable education Experience in commercial operations or contract management Understanding of requirements in the energy market incl. reporting standards Customer service-oriented mindset and strong relationship management skills Strong attention to detail Proficiency with commercial IT systems, tools and process optimizations Experience with commercial management tools for invoice automation and generation of reporting Knowledge of PPA structures and understanding of relevant energy market regulation is beneficial Furthermore, you are proficient in MS-Excel and are fluent in written and spoken English with strong communication skills. Additional language skills are a merit You are determined to contribute to the business success with a demonstrated passion for renewable energy and the energy transition

Offshore Wind

Contract Manager

Netherlands - Netherlands

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Contract Manager for a dynamic and challenging role within the offshore wind sector. This position involves managing the installation of rock for scour protection and cable burial for a Polish windfarm currently under construction. The project is a joint venture between a renowned Offshore Wind company and a local partner, offering a unique blend of collaboration and innovation. Benefits: - Professional Growth: Engage in a high-profile project that will enhance your expertise in contract and relation management. - Hybrid Working: Enjoy the flexibility of working from both the office and home, promoting a healthy work-life balance. - Collaborative Environment: Work closely with a diverse project team based in the Netherlands, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and mutual support. - Strategic Involvement: Play a crucial role in commercial and strategic decision-making, acting as a sparring partner for the project manager. Key Responsibilities: - Manage contract variations and claims, ensuring accurate monthly reporting. - Promote contract awareness within the project team, maintaining visibility and approachability. - Assist in commercial and strategic thinking, while handling administrative and reporting tasks. - Collaborate effectively within a joint venture framework, with a scope split approximately 50/50. Skills and Experience Required: - Proven experience in offshore construction works. - Proficiency in English; knowledge of Polish and/or Dutch is advantageous. - Eligibility to work within the EU. This role is perfect for a seasoned Contract Manager looking to make a significant impact in the offshore wind industry. The project offers a blend of strategic involvement and hands-on management, providing a fulfilling and enriching professional experience. If you possess the required skills and experience, this could be the next exciting chapter in your career.

Offshore Wind

Junior Investment Analyst

London - United Kingdom

Our client are searching for a Junior Investment Analyst/Junior Financial Modeller to support their investment team in a variety of critical functions including market and financial analysis, due diligence, financial modelling, research, and presentation preparation. This role assists with evaluating and assessing investment opportunities, supporting portfolio valuation and reporting, and contributing to investment decision-making and origination activities within the offshore wind and real assets sector. The role presents a development path from analytical support through to more independent financial and investment analysis responsibilities.

Offshore Wind

Lead Consent Manager

United Kingdom - Remote - United Kingdom

Our client are seeking a Lead Consent Manager to supplement the Transmission package on a UK Offshore Wind Farm. This role will be a critical delivery role working with the wider team throughout the DCO determination phase, and towards and during post-consent discharge. This role will work closely with the Strategic Consent Lead and is expected to focus on working through key EIA and HRA topics and delivering into the wider project programme. Candidates with experience reg. DCO determination, DCO post-consent discharge, linear development projects and/or renewable energy projects are preferred.

Offshore Wind

Client Representative WTG Installation (SOV)

Offshore, Denmark - Denmark

Applicants must hold the right to work in the EU / an EU Passport. Role Overview: Represent the WTG package on the SOV and act as the main point of contact for all activities and requests, involving in particular the supervision and coordination of energization activities and taking-over quality inspections. The representative shall witness operational activities where safe to do so, observe the Contractor’s performance, and represent the WTG package team in matters of HSE, quality, Contractors' procedures, and programme. Attend regular meetings and conference calls on behalf of the WTG package when required. Provide regular reporting towards the WTG package team Document and agree (with the representatives of the WTG OEM contractor) the progress of the works on a daily basis in the form of a Daily Progress Report (DPR). The DPR shall be recorded into a system provided by the Employer. Prompt identification and notification of any construction issue that may arise or have the potential to arise during the works and contributing in resolving any issues where applicable. Perform inspections and record findings in quality tracking system. Management of safety through participation in safety on behalf of our Client. This should include identification and reporting any safety-related observations on a day to day basis as well as performing primary duties and raising alerts to any perceived trends relating to HSE risks as they arise. The representative has no contractual authority, except for the authority to intervene or stop the operations in cases of safety or quality infringements or if procedures are not being followed by the Contractor. CERTIFICATIONS: GWO BST Training: Sea Survival Working at heights First Aid Fire Awareness Manual Handling. Helicopter Under Water Escape Training (HUET) with Compressed Air Emergency Breathing System (CA-EBS) certification. XBR” Shoulder measurement Current valid Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) / Oil and Gas UK (OGUK), accompanied by an additional fitness assessment such as the "Chester Step Test". IOSH Managing Safely or similar HSE training. OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Experience of providing offshore rep services in offshore renewables (preferably under an EPCI Contract environment). Proven experience as offshore representative for WTG installation and commissioning windfarms is essential. Understanding of marine operations (particularly SOVs) and marine coordination procedures Experience in WTG quality and taking-over inspections is preferable Experience with WTG post installation completion / commissioning activities and handover procedures is preferable A strong working knowledge and understanding of health and safety requirements; Strong understanding of best wind industry practice, applicable codes, standards relevant to offshore construction. IT proficient (Microsoft Word, Excel and Internet), experience using inspection/auditing software in a construction environment desirable. Excellent communication skills, able to communicate effectively with others (shall be fluent in spoken and written English)

Offshore Wind

Design Assurance Manager

London - United Kingdom

Our client are seeking a Design Manager to support the development, management, and implementation of the overarching design assurance process for a major offshore wind farm project. The Design Manager ensures that all design activities across the project meet the required standards and comply with Employer and regulatory requirements. The Design Manager shall also contribute to mitigation of risks associated with the design process, helping to ensure that the project is delivered safely, on time, and within budget.

Offshore Wind

WTG Supervisor & Senior Authorised Person

London - Netherlands

Our client is seeking a WTG Supervisor & SAP to support the commissioning and energisation of a major offshore wind project in the Dutch North Sea. The role will oversee mechanical and electrical completion, ensure compliance with project and HSSE requirements, and perform HV switching operations during commissioning. This position will initially be based onshore in the WTG marshalling harbour in Eemshaven for onboarding and HV authorisation before transferring offshore aboard the SOV. The role will operate on a two-weeks-on, two-weeks-off rotation with 12-hour shifts. Key Responsibilities: Supervise onshore and offshore commissioning activities for the WTG package. Ensure all outstanding works and quality issues are identified, documented, and reported. Oversee mechanical and electrical completion and verify testing activities. Ensure commissioning is carried out in compliance with HSSE standards and project requirements. Monitor daily progress and report commissioning status to the project team. Coordinate and communicate effectively between contractors, consultants, and project stakeholders. Perform HV switching operations on 66kV WTG switchgear when required. Prepare and review switching plans, protocols, and method statements. Ensure adherence to the project’s Safe System of Work (SSOW) and electrical safety rules. Participate in commissioning walk-downs, performance testing, and snag list management. Support quality assurance processes and assist with asset handover to O&M. Maintain accurate documentation and end-of-shift reports. Candidate Profile: Strong background in WTG commissioning and electrical systems. Qualified HV Senior Authorised Person (SAP) with experience at 66kV level. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the wind industry, preferably in commissioning roles. Knowledge of Dutch electrical standards (NEN 3140 and NEN 3840) preferred. Proven understanding of QHSSE principles and offshore work practices. Proficient in MS Office and familiar with permit-to-work and electrical safety systems. Excellent communication skills with fluency in English. Adaptable, team-oriented, and capable of working day or night shifts. Valid GWO certification required.

Offshore Wind

Control Engineer

London - Netherlands

Our client is seeking an experienced Control Engineer to support the commissioning phase of a major offshore wind project in the Dutch North Sea. This role will play a key part in ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant execution of commissioning and operational activities, contributing to the successful delivery of a high-quality offshore wind development. Based in Rijswijk, this position will require occasional travel to manufacturing and assembly sites, with offshore visits expected during the commissioning phase. During offshore operations, the role will follow a two-weeks-on, two-weeks-off rotation. Key Responsibilities: Monitor and coordinate commissioning and operational activities across the project. Ensure commissioning work meets HSSE, quality, and schedule requirements. Collaborate with the HSSE team to promote a zero-harm safety culture. Participate in commissioning meetings and provide regular progress updates. Ensure the quality and accuracy of commissioning documentation. Interface with the grid operator and contractors to manage switching and operational activities. Act as the Responsible SAP for switching operations and authorisations. Review and comment on PTWs, RAMS, and switching protocols. Prepare switching schedules, method statements, and operational procedures. Monitor SCADA systems, respond to alarms, and coordinate troubleshooting. Maintain daily operational logs and manage shift handovers. Support O&M coordination and control room setup during commissioning. Lead toolbox talks and contribute to safety meetings as required. Participate in emergency response coordination and daily operations calls. Candidate Profile: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering. Proven experience as a Control Engineer and Senior Authorised Person (SAP). Strong background in switching operations and electrical systems within offshore wind. Minimum 5 years of experience in commissioning or operations roles. Excellent understanding of electrical networks and control and protection systems. Knowledge of Dutch electrical standards (NEN 3140 and NEN 3840) preferred. Proficiency in SCADA system monitoring and alarm management. Fluent in English with strong communication and coordination skills. Proficient in MS Office and technical documentation. Adaptable, proactive, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, international project environment.

Offshore Wind

Sales Director

UK - United Kingdom

The Sales Director (Northern Europe) will strategically lead, develop, and manage sales operations for a major international wind turbine manufacturer across the UK, Ireland, and Nordic countries. This pivotal role will include significant responsibility for establishing, growing, and mentoring a high-performing regional sales team. A critical aspect of this position involves close collaboration with the global headquarters to ensure strategic alignment, effective communication, and successful integration of global practices into regional sales operations. The ideal candidate will possess deep market knowledge, robust leadership capabilities, and proven experience negotiating major contracts within the renewable energy or infrastructure sector. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership and Regional Development Develop and execute comprehensive sales strategies to establish market leadership in offshore wind projects across Northern Europe. Identify and drive new business opportunities, leveraging extensive market intelligence and competitor analysis. Team Building and Leadership Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing regional sales team, fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and results-oriented culture. Ensure optimal regional coverage and sales effectiveness through strategic hiring and team structuring. Interface with Global Headquarters Act as the primary regional point of contact with global headquarters for Sales matters, facilitating clear communication and strategic alignment. Champion the integration of global best practices into regional processes, adapting them effectively to local market conditions. Customer and Stakeholder Engagement Establish and maintain executive-level relationships with key clients, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies. Represent the company in high-level negotiations and strategic partnerships, ensuring optimal commercial outcomes. Bid and Contract Management Oversee strategic direction and ensure successful completion of major bids, proposals, and tenders. Lead negotiation of critical contracts (PSA, TSA, EWA), ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and regional market conditions. Market and Risk Management Conduct ongoing market assessments to identify trends, risks, and opportunities. Proactively manage commercial and contractual risks, implementing robust mitigation strategies. Financial and Operational Accountability Manage regional sales budgets and forecasts, providing regular reporting and strategic insights to senior management. Optimize profitability through effective pricing strategies, cost management, and operational efficiencies. Qualifications and Experience: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, with advanced degree (MBA or similar) preferred. Minimum of 10 years' senior leadership experience in sales or business development within renewable energy, offshore wind, infrastructure, or related heavy industry sectors. Demonstrated success in establishing, building, and leading geographically dispersed sales teams. Proven track record in complex commercial negotiations and securing significant contracts in an international setting. Extensive experience collaborating with international teams, ideally with direct experience interfacing with Asian corporate headquarters. Skills: Strategic and visionary leadership abilities. Exceptional cross-cultural communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, and profitability analysis. Highly adaptable with a proven ability to navigate international corporate structures and local market dynamics. Working Conditions: Flexible location based within UK, Ireland, or Nordics; frequent travel within region, and periodic visits to global headquarters. Remote-first role with significant autonomy and flexible working arrangements. Dynamic and strategically critical role with significant scope for personal and professional growth.

View All Jobs