PE Pipe for the Longest Sustainable Energy Connection on Land in the Netherlands

Starting in 2021, the province of Friesland is making a significant step in the energy transition. In the Frisian part of the IJsselmeer, Windpark Fryslân will become operational: 89 wind turbines producing approximately 1,500 GWh of green electricity annually, equivalent to the power consumption of 500,000 households. This results in an annual CO2 reduction of no less than 800,000 tons.

110 kV high-voltage cables connect the wind farm to the high-voltage grid managed by TenneT. For this, 60 kilometers of cables are needed, laid through the Afsluitdijk and along the A7. It is the longest sustainable energy connection on land in the Netherlands.

Profilplast Pipesystems ensures the protection of these cables by supplying 32 kilometers of PE100 cable protection pipes.

PE100

The choice of PE100 pipe for this project was clear. Pipes produced from PE100 granulate are excellent as cable protection pipes. PE100 is resistant to the high temperatures of the power cables and has a high insulation value, meaning it does not conduct electricity. Additionally, PE100 does not corrode and is resistant to brackish water (a mix of fresh and saltwater), which is found in the IJsselmeer.

PE100+

The pipes are made from premium quality PE100 virgin granulate, listed in the PE100+ Association. A common misconception is that all PE100 is the same. However, there are significant quality variations worldwide. To ensure high-quality PE100, leading granulate producers established the PE100+ Association. This association tests critical values of PE100 at a higher standard than CEN/ISO.

For this project, Profilplast supplies PE100 pipes listed on the PE100+ Association list. The combination of thermal and mechanical stress on the pipe makes it crucial that the PE100 cable protection pipe is listed in the PE100+ Association. Without this certification, there is an increased risk of stress cracks and crack propagation. The pipes supplied by Profilplast Pipesystems meet the PE100+ Association standards and are highly resistant to stress cracking and crack propagation, making them suitable for HDD drilling.

HDD Drilling

Due to limited construction space, HDD drilling is necessary to successfully complete this project. HDD drilling is an efficient and environmentally friendly method. The surface remains completely closed and undisturbed. The pipes are directly installed underground without digging trenches or holes. For the installation of the pipes, HDD drilling with PE100 pipes with a diameter of 250mm was conducted at 10 locations, totaling 8km in length.

Support

In the preliminary phase, Profilplast Pipesystems provided support in the dimensioning of the cable protection pipes. Crucial to this project is the project planning. The Afsluitdijk is not easily accessible. To minimize traffic disruption and execute the project efficiently, Profilplast Pipesystems provides just-in-time deliveries.

Energy Transition

With sustainable solutions, we contribute to this energy transition. The PE100 cable protection pipes protect the cables that ultimately export the capital: sustainable electricity.