Cadeler (NYSE:CDLR) announced the successful installation of the first fully commissioned monopile foundation at Ørsted’s Hornsea 3 offshore wind farm.
The achievement marks the beginning of a multi-year execution phase for the project, which is set to become the world’s largest offshore wind development upon completion.
Cadeler confirmed Thursday that its purpose-built A-class vessel, Wind Ally, successfully placed the first of 197 planned monopile foundations in the UK North Sea.
The operation represents a significant expansion for the company, as it marks the first time Cadeler has managed the full transportation and installation (T&I) scope for offshore foundations, a strategic move intended to capture more of the offshore wind value chain.
The Hornsea 3 project is a massive undertaking with a total capacity of 2.9 GW, enough to power approximately 3.3 million UK homes.
Cadeler’s role involves a complex, coordinated fleet operation: the Wind Ally handles the XXL monopiles, while the Wind Orca installs secondary steel components.
The service operation vessel ESVAGT FROUDE and specialists from Boston Energy provide the final commissioning and completion scope.
Financially, the Hornsea 3 contracts are among the largest in Cadeler’s history.
The combined T&I and turbine installation agreements are valued between €500 million and €700 million.
This milestone follows a strong 2025 fiscal year for Cadeler, which saw the company double its fleet capacity and build a contract backlog that reached €2.8 billion as of March 2026.
The news follows a busy week for the project; on May 12, Abu Dhabi sovereign investor Mubadala announced a $325 million investment in Hornsea 3, joining a consortium led by Apollo Funds.
Ørsted retains a 50% stake in the project and continues to lead its development and construction.