Global leading engineering company Ramboll has been contracted by China Steel Power Corporation to deliver the full jacket foundation design for the Zhong Neng offshore wind farm which will have a capacity of 300 MW. The project is another important milestone for Taiwan’s strategy to invest into renewable energy.

Image source: Ramboll

The Zhong Neng offshore wind farm is located about 20 km off the west coast of Changhua County in Taiwan. The 300 MW offshore wind farm is co-developed by China Steel Corporation (CSC) and Copenhange Infrastructure Partners (CIP), and is scheduled for completion in 2024. To harness synergies with the international offshore wind industry, CSC joined forces with an experienced renewable energy fund management company with focus on offshore wind energy.

China Steel Power Corporation has contracted Ramboll to provide the conceptual, FEED, and detailed designs for the primary and secondary structure of the jacket foundations, piles, and transition pieces, including parts of the metocean assessment, as well as manufacturing and installation support.

“This project highlights the growing importance of renewables on Taiwan’s agenda and we are honoured that China Steel Power Corporation has chosen us to assist with the design development of the jacket foundations. Resilient and durable design solutions are essential in the harsh offshore environment of Taiwan and we are excited to share our in-depth and unique expertise”, says Andreas Willecke, Head of Department at Ramboll.

The new and rapidly growing offshore wind market in Taiwan requires a continuous steep learning curve, especially when it comes to the challenging climate conditions. Situated in-between tropics, Taiwan’s offshore waters are exposed to extreme natural forces such as earthquakes, sand waves, and soil liquefaction. This adds complexity to the design and engineering aspects, and it requires innovative thinking and flexibility in terms of foundation techniques and installation. 

Zhong Neng is adjacent to CIP’s Chang Fang and Xidao offshore wind farms where Ramboll has also provided the concept, FEED and detailed design for the offshore jacket foundations. All three offshore wind farms will have a combined capacity of 900MW and will sustainably supply approximately 900.000 Taiwanese households with clean renewable energy. 

KeyFacts Energy Industry Directory: Ramboll