How Ørsted is building the world’s largest wind farm
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The construction of Hornsea 3, set to become the world’s largest offshore wind farm, is advancing as Ørsted finalises contracts for an extensive air and sea logistics fleet. With a planned capacity of 2.9 GW, Hornsea 3 will deliver renewable power to more than 3.3 million UK homes by 2027. The £8.5 billion project strengthens the country’s energy independence and demonstrates the infrastructure required to build a next-generation offshore wind farm.
Why Hornsea 3 matters for the UK energy transition
Hornsea 3 is central to the UK’s offshore wind ambitions, confirming the country’s position as a leader in renewable energy. By supplying electricity to millions of households, the project supports government plans to decarbonise the grid and reach net zero.
Ørsted’s investment of about £8.5 billion covers construction and a wide supply chain network. Beyond energy production, Hornsea 3 is expected to create up to 5,000 jobs during construction, with more than 1,200 permanent operations roles. These figures underline the project’s wider economic value, stretching across ports, manufacturing hubs, and specialist service providers.
Assembling the offshore fleet to power construction
A critical element of Hornsea 3’s progress is the assembly of its support fleet. Ørsted has contracted a variety of marine vessels to secure safe and efficient offshore operations. At the centre of the fleet will be the new Service Operating Vessel Esvagt James Blythe, designed to house 44 crew members and act as a floating base for technicians.
Crew transfer is equally important. Hybrid diesel-electric vessels from MHO and E-class CTVs from Northern Offshore Services will provide low-emission transport in North Sea conditions. Mainprize Offshore, based in Scarborough, has been contracted to provide two guard vessels, while Gulf Marine Services is supplying the jack-up barge Enterprise, capable of supporting operations in waters up to 80 metres deep and accommodating more than 120 offshore workers.
An uncrewed surface vessel (USV), equipped with advanced radio communications for survey and monitoring, will reduce the need for manned operations in certain offshore scenarios, improving safety and efficiency.
The aerial dimension with helicopters in offshore logistics
Helicopter support has been secured through CHC Helicopter, which will operate two models tailored to offshore work. The Airbus H175, with capacity for up to 16 passengers, and the AW139, carrying up to 12, will serve as rapid crew transfer solutions. These aircraft add flexibility, particularly when sea conditions restrict vessel movements, and cut travel time between shore and turbines.
The aerial capability shows how modern offshore wind projects rely on integrated logistics, balancing sea and air operations to keep construction schedules on track.
Infrastructure and supply chain shaping the project
Logistics extend beyond the fleet. Ørsted has selected Steel River Quay at Teesworks on the River Tees as its marshaling base. Covering 300,000 square metres, the site is being used to stage monopiles and steel components before offshore transport.
Monopile manufacturing is being led by SeAH Wind from its new Teesside facility, with subcontractors including Mammoet, Glacier Energy, and Hutchinson Engineering. The first monopiles have been rolled out and prepared for surface treatment ahead of installation by Cadeler, which will use specialist piling equipment.
To complement offshore generation, Hornsea 3 will also feature one of Europe’s largest battery energy storage systems (BESS). Currently under construction onshore, the 300 MW / 600 MWh system is due for completion by the end of 2026. This will allow surplus wind power to be stored and dispatched during periods of high demand, improving grid stability.
Ørsted’s wider strategy and financial backdrop
Hornsea 3 comes at a time when Ørsted is balancing expansion with financial discipline. The company recently launched an €8 billion rights issue to strengthen its balance sheet after setbacks in the US offshore market. Despite these pressures, Ørsted has reaffirmed its plan to deliver 8.1 GW of offshore capacity worldwide by 2027.
Ørsted is also pursuing its “farm-down” model, reducing ownership stakes in large projects to recycle capital. Reports indicate that the company is in discussions to sell up to 50 percent of Hornsea 3, ensuring external investment while retaining operational control. This strategy enables Ørsted to advance large-scale projects without overextending its resources.
The logistical arrangements for Hornsea 3 highlight the complexity of constructing offshore wind farms at unprecedented scale. From hybrid crew transfer vessels and uncrewed monitoring craft to helicopter operations and large-scale marshaling yards, the project reflects a fully integrated supply chain model.
As Hornsea 3 moves toward completion in 2027, it will stand as both a milestone in renewable energy production and a benchmark for managing logistics in future offshore developments. Lessons from its air-sea fleet and supply chain partnerships will influence offshore wind projects across Europe and beyond.
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