Ørsted is expanding its offshore wind operations at its Norddeich site in northern Germany. As part of this development, the company will bring 30 previously outsourced positions in-house, increasing its local workforce by around 15 percent.
The new roles include team leaders and service technicians focused on the maintenance of high-voltage components and systems, which are critical to the safe and continuous operation of offshore wind farms. Responsibilities will include regular inspections and upkeep of equipment such as transformers, cables, switchgear, and insulation. Additional team leader roles will cover inspection tasks related to lifts, cranes, and safety systems on wind turbines.
Ørsted has also added a second service operation vessel (SOV), the Wind of Hope, to support maintenance work across its 337 offshore wind turbines in the German North Sea. The vessel joins the Wind of Change, which has been in operation since 2019.
The Wind of Hope is specifically designed for offshore wind operations. The 84-metre ship features a hybrid diesel-electric propulsion system supported by batteries, a motion-compensated gangway, and a dynamic positioning system that allows it to hold position within one metre of accuracy.
The vessel accommodates up to 90 people in single-occupancy cabins, each with a private bathroom and window. Onboard amenities include a galley for freshly prepared meals, a 40-seat canteen, and an independent freshwater supply. The Wind of Hope will dock at Emden port every two weeks for crew changes and equipment loading.
Image courtesy Ørsted
