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Eiffage Outlines EPCIC Contract for Belgian Energy Island Project

Eiffage's EPCIC contract for four electrical substations on Princess Elisabeth Island marks a milestone in offshore energy.
Eiffage Details EPCIC Contract for Belgian Energy Island

The contract was secured through its Belgian subsidiary Eiffage Métal, in a consortium with HSM Offshore Energy and Iv-Offshore & Energy.

Princess Elisabeth Island will be the first energy island to combine high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and alternating current (HVAC). The artificial island, located 45 kilometers off the Belgian coast in the Princess Elisabeth offshore wind farm zone, will cover approximately five hectares above water. The electrical infrastructure will span around six hectares.

The project developer is Elia, Belgium’s transmission system operator (TSO).

The consortium will design, fabricate, install, and commission the island’s high-voltage infrastructure, including four AC substations. Two substations will have a capacity of 1,050 MW, and the other two will be 700 MW.

The contract also includes a service module and a garage.

Construction of the substations will begin in May next year and is expected to continue until the first quarter of 2029.

Smulders will manufacture part of the infrastructure in its Belgian factories, with final assembly at its new site in Vlissingen, Netherlands.

Installation on the island is planned to begin in 2027, aiming for commissioning in 2030.

This contract underscores the Group’s ability to develop offshore wind infrastructure, having completed over 30 electrical substations for the European market, according to Smulders.

Notable contracts include the substation for the 496 MW Saint-Brieuc offshore wind farm in France, and two offshore electrical substations for Scotland’s Moray West and Inch Cape offshore wind projects.

Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024