Düsseldorf, Germany – [21 November] – German defence company Rheinmetall is playing a critical role in unlocking the potential of offshore wind energy in the Baltic Sea. The company has secured a significant contract to clear explosive ordnance from the seabed, a necessary step to connect a new offshore wind farm to the power grid.
The project, commissioned by grid operator 50Hertz as part of its OST-6-1 initiative, is valued in the low double-digit million euro range. Rheinmetall will be responsible for detecting, identifying, documenting, and removing explosive ordnance from the designated area. Recovered materials will either be handed over to authorities or safely disposed of on-site.
This is the first major offshore ordnance clearance project for Rheinmetall, highlighting the company’s growing expertise in this specialized field. The offshore operations, led by Rheinmetall Project Solutions GmbH, commenced in July 2024 and are expected to be completed by May 2025.
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By clearing the seabed, Rheinmetall will enable 50Hertz to lay extra-high voltage cables and install two offshore platforms off the coast of the Fischland-Darß region. This project underscores Rheinmetall’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions and its ability to address complex challenges, such as the legacy of unexploded ordnance from World War II.
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The Silent Threat of Unexploded Ordnance
The Baltic Sea, like many other bodies of water around the world, is littered with unexploded ordnance from past conflicts. These relics pose a significant risk to maritime activities, including offshore wind energy development. Rheinmetall’s expertise in ordnance clearance is essential to mitigating these risks and ensuring the safety of workers and the environment.
As the world transitions to cleaner energy sources, it is crucial to address the legacy of past conflicts. By safely removing unexploded ordnance, Rheinmetall is helping to pave the way for a sustainable future.
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