This case study highlights our dedication to advancing and innovating in the renewable energy industry. Through our unique engineering solutions, stakeholder engagement strategies, environmental considerations, and problem-solving capabilities, we are creating value and a lasting impact on the offshore wind industry.

Vineyard Wind: America’s first large-scale offshore wind farm

The 220kV/115kV onshore substation is a key component, enabling the first large-scale offshore wind farm in the U.S. to deliver clean energy to the New England power grid. It’s expected to provide 800 MW of renewable power to over 400,000 homes annually, reducing carbon emissions by 1.6 million tons.

The substation features unique innovations, including a compact footprint achieved through careful planning and agile engineering solutions. Key to our design are two Synchronous Condensers, crucial for maintaining grid stability given the variability of wind conditions.

“Our work on the Vineyard Wind 1 Onshore Substation highlights our commitment to sustainability in the renewable energy industry. Through innovative solutions and stakeholder engagement, we are creating lasting value and a positive environmental impact.” – Nicolas Sanloup, President and Managing Director, Americas

 

Sustainability and innovation

The project design incorporates sustainability at its core. We optimized the substation footprint with compact Air Insulated Switchgear, utilized environmentally friendly materials, and repurposed surplus rock and soil onsite or donated it to local businesses. These strategies, coupled with our commitment to the highest quality and standards, have contributed to the successful integration of complex electrical systems and top-tier environmental practices.

Additionally, we have adopted 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) in project execution, which has revolutionized project planning and visualization, enhancing engineering efficiency

Local impact and environmental stewardship

This project not only supplies cost-competitive electricity to over 400,000 households but will also significantly reduced carbon emissions by an impressive 1.6 million tons annually. Furthermore, it is generating local employment opportunities that will last for at least the next 25 years.

We have placed a strong emphasis on local content, engaging local subcontractors, and promoting community impact. By employing locals and reducing transportation and movement, we have not only fostered a positive impression within the local community but also reduced the overall carbon footprint of the project. Our strategy has emphasized trust and stakeholder engagement, significantly streamlining permitting risks and timelines.

Luis Munoz, Head of Project Management and Construction, says, “We are particularly proud of the local impact. Working hand in hand with the community, we are not just offering jobs; we are offering long-term careers and contributing to the economic vitality of the region.”

 

 

Environmental stewardship

Our meticulous attention to detail showcases our dedication to preserving local wildlife, from bats to ospreys. Our proactive Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) management program has ensured over 2 million incident-free work hours, while our environmental metrics show significant reductions in waste, energy, and fuel usage.

Our commitment to the environment doesn’t end there; it’s continuous and adaptive. From implementing secondary oil containment systems to wildlife protection measures, we’re proactive in environmental stewardship. As the project approaches completion, we have already completed the reforestation stage, planting trees in the surrounding areas to further contribute to the local ecosystem and offset carbon emissions.

 

“Along with Vineyard Wind, we make weekly environmental walks to detect any changes early on. This is something unprecedented in any other project. This meticulous attention to detail proves our commitment to preserving local wildlife, from bats to ospreys.” -Thorsten Vilinger, Project Manager Vineyard Wind

 

 

Our Americas team, in partnership with the Vineyard Wind team, held a tree-planting event at our onshore substation. This event is part of our ongoing efforts to positively impact the environment and promote sustainability. Each tree planted represents our commitment to ecological balance and reducing environmental impact. We remain dedicated to creating a carbon-free energy infrastructure for a greener future.

“Participating in the tree-planting event organized by Linxon’s team was truly meaningful. Not only are we contributing to environmental benefits and blending the substation with its natural surroundings, but we are also strengthening our camaraderie and shared sustainability goals with the Vineyard Wind team. Every step count, and we are proud to be part of this initiative.” – Johnathan Dorion, Project Controller, Linxon

 

In conclusion

Our work on the Vineyard Wind 1 Onshore Substation demonstrates our leading role in the U.S. renewable energy sector. This project, marking the inauguration of the nation’s first utility-scale offshore wind farm, exemplifies engineering excellence and environmental stewardship. With its projected capacity to power over 400,000 households and reduce carbon emissions by 1.6 million tons annually, this venture underscores our dedication to sustainable energy solutions.