Innovative Energy: The Completion of Vineyard Wind 1
In a recent development, Prysmian Group, a renowned Italian firm specializing in the manufacture and installation of telecom and power cables, announced that it had put the finishing touches on the Vineyard Wind 1 project. This significant achievement marks the completion of the United States’ very first commercial-scale offshore wind farm. Perched over 15 miles off the Massachusetts coast, Vineyard Wind epitomizes the revolution in renewable energy.
Vineyard Wind is distinguished by its vast collection of 62 wind turbines. When fully operational, these energy-harnessing powerhouses are said to produce 800 MW of electricity; enough to power in excess of 400,000 homes.
The Pioneering Role of the Prysmian Group
Back in May 2019, Vineyard Wind, LLC awarded the project contract to Prysmian Group. Prysmian was not only tasked with the design and production but also with the installation and commissioning of the HVAC cable system forming the infrastructure of the entire wind farm. The cable network involves two 220 kV three-core cables with extruded XLPE insulation.
Connecting Wind Power to the Grid
This state-of-the-art cable system acts as the energy highway, transmitting the wind turbines’ generated electricity to the mainland power grid in the US. Beyond the immediate benefits of alternative energy, Vineyard Wind is poised to make a significant impact on the environment. Especially in the context of carbon emissions, this project could potentially reduce over 1.6 million tonnes per annum.
Expertly Made and Intricately Installed
The 134-kilometer submarine power cables were crafted at Prysmian Group’s manufacturing units located in Pikkala, Finland, and Arco Felice, Italy, demonstrating international collaboration for sustainable energy solutions. But production was only half the task. Prysmian Group also spearheaded the marine installation processes. With the Cable Enterprise and the Ulisse cable-laying vessels at their disposal, the Prysmian team executed both the manufacture and deployment of the cables expertly.
Through the successful completion and testing of Vineyard Wind 1, Prysmian Group has embedded its mark in the annals of renewable energy history. Its pivotal role in America’s first commercial-scale offshore wind farm sets the stage for future possibilities in embracing cleaner, alternative energy sources, while also showcasing Prysmian’s aptitude for leading-edge energy solutions.
