UTC supports Poland’s largest renewable energy project
UTC Poland supports the country’s largest renewable energy project
UTC Overseas Poland completed a challenging project transporting oversized electrical equipment for the construction of an onshore transformer station supporting the Baltic Power offshore wind farm. This ambitious project was a critical component in one of the most significant renewable energy developments in Poland, and it showcased UTC’s prowess in providing complex logistic solutions.
Project timeline: Key milestones in renewable energy logistics
The project unfolded over six months with meticulous preparation, including route analyses, administrative approvals, and technical design. It began with an initial delivery of components at the Port of Gdynia where transformers and shunt reactors were unloaded from a deep-sea vessel, and it continued to the Port of Władysławowo where they were stored and reloaded for road transport. The operation ended with the final delivery and installation at the transformer station construction site in Osieki Leborskie.
In all, this transport took about three weeks and involved moving oversized and overweight components:
• 4 Transformers - each weighing 354 tons.
• 4 Shunt Reactors - each weighing 135 tons.
• 180 General Cargo Units - total weight of approximately 250 tons.
Tackling Logistical Challenges in Heavy Equipment Transport
The oversized dimensions and extreme weight of the transformers and shunt reactors presented substantial challenges. Adding to the complexity were the logistical hurdles such as:
· Navigating public roads with weight and size restrictions.
· Addressing obstacles like dismantling power and telecommunication lines, road signs, and felling trees on the route.
· Restoring infrastructure once the convoy passed.
· Safeguarding infrastructure by constructing temporary fly-over bridges to secure existing bridges.
· Securing a suitable storage area by erecting a temporary storage yard in Władysławowo to expedite seamless transshipments.
Adapting a ramp design to facilitate Ro-Ro operations at the Port of Władysławowo which is typically unsuitable for unloading deep-sea vessels. This was a first in the region.
Innovative Technology and Equipment for Safe Transport
UTC implemented innovative solutions and utilized state-of-the-art equipment for this complex job. LiDAR Technology provided precise 3D laser scanning to ensure route feasibility. A 76.20m x 24.38m x 4.88m barge with a deadweight 5,500t, was commissioned to navigate the sea route from Gdynia to Władysławowo.
Ro-Ro ramps were designed and custom-built specifically for unloading the equipment and special supports were used to enable the Ro-Ro loading. Two 14-axle line 3-file SPMT transport units were used to move the transformers on public roads, and two portable cranes with lifting capacities of 1,000t and 600t were used for loading and unloading.
Two fly-over bridges were set in place to secure existing bridges. Two 12-axle 2-file Scheuerle modular trailers moved shunt reactors across public roads while 30 standard sets transported general cargo shipments.
Successful Planning and Collaboration Drive Project Success
UTC’s entire Poland team was involved in the project along with many subcontractors. Regular meetings were held with all stakeholders to ensure seamless execution, mitigate risks, overcome challenges, and monitor budgets and timelines.
UTC’s multi-faceted talents, expertise, and knowledge were on full display. A multitude of tasks were necessary to perform this operation. They involved:
- Technical studies, route survey analysis, and administrative arrangements
- Technical drawings for the contracted scope of work
- Sea transport and sea fastening; loading and unloading; and road transport including cargo lashings
- Installation of equipment and related cargo at the construction site
- Safety precautions were implemented at every step to ensure a safe job site
UTC Sets New Standards in Renewable Energy Logistics
UTC Overseas Poland's innovative approach, precision planning, and expert execution have set new logistical standards in Poland. This project showcases the company's ability to deliver complex transport solutions, reinforcing its position as a leader in the logistics and renewable energy industries.
Completion of this wind farm is expected in 2026 at which time, energy produced will integrate into the national grid. It is expected to deliver renewable energy to over 1.5 million Polish households.
