IQIP provided the purpose-built Pile Access Platform, delivering a safe and stable working interface for all activities inside and around the demonstration monopile during decommissioning. It served as the central work area for the deployment and retrieval of dredging equipment, as well as for handling hoses, piping, monitoring equipment, and enabling safe personnel movement and tool handling around the pile opening.
After installing the retrieval tools and connecting the main crane to the monopile, the pile was pressurized to initiate uplift. While the pile remained approximately 2 meters below the seabed, the water hoses were cut using the integrated cutter in the hose saddle, mounted at the top edge of the monopile.
Once released from the seabed, the monopile was lifted back into the motion-compensated pile gripper, down-ended, and sea-fastened for transport back to the Port of Rotterdam.
A smaller chapter alongside the main event — the first full-scale monopile installation using EQ-Piling technology — but nevertheless a precise and carefully executed operation, demonstrating the breadth of IQIP and DEME’s expertise.
