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Emission-Free Dyke Project Sets New Sustainability Bar
Discover how Tiel-Waardenburg Dyke Reinforcement is revolutionizing marine infrastructure with emission-free electric construction.
Emission-Free Dyke Project Sets New Sustainability Bar
At SA Operations, we always keep an eye on projects pushing the boundaries of innovation in offshore and marine infrastructure. One recent standout is the Tiel-Waardenburg dyke reinforcement in the Netherlands—an ambitious, large-scale project redefining what’s possible in sustainable construction. Carried out by the consortium Mekante Diek (a collaboration between Van Oord, Ploegam, and Dura Vermeer), this project is the first of its kind in the Netherlands to be built almost entirely with electric equipment.
According to research conducted by TNO, one of Europe’s most respected scientific institutes, the project showcases a major leap forward in emission-free construction. TNO's findings reveal that by swapping traditional diesel-powered heavy machinery for nearly 40 electric alternatives—including trucks, piling rigs, cranes, and tractors—the project saves over 1,190 tonnes of CO₂ and 3,260 kg of nitrogen (NOx) annually. That’s roughly the equivalent of the CO₂ absorption of 59,500 trees each year.
This initiative is more than a proof of concept—it’s a model for the future. Mekante Diek’s development of WattHub, Europe’s first XL fast-charging plaza specifically designed for heavy construction equipment, is at the heart of this transformation. Located near the project site, WattHub runs on 100% renewable electricity—90% of which is sourced directly from local wind turbines. By tapping into localized green energy, the project sidesteps the risk of grid congestion and optimizes energy use on-site.
The project is being executed under the Dutch national Flood Protection Programme (HWBP), marking the largest dyke reinforcement effort since the iconic Delta Works. Spanning twenty kilometers between Tiel and Waardenburg, the dyke is being raised, widened, and strengthened with over nine kilometers of sheet piling. To date, seven kilometers of sheet piling have been installed and 4.7 kilometers of the dyke have already been reinforced. The goal is full flood protection by 2027—all while preserving livability for the surrounding communities and ensuring minimal environmental disruption to the bordering Natura2000 area.
From a recruitment and operational perspective, the project reflects a clear trend in offshore and heavy infrastructure sectors: the growing demand for personnel skilled in managing and operating advanced, emission-free equipment. As more companies adopt electric machinery and renewable energy integration, the need for technical expertise in battery management, sustainable logistics, and smart energy scheduling is becoming essential.
TNO’s final report, Assessment of sustainable charging operations of Mekante Diek's construction equipment, notes that while this project is a milestone, there’s room for optimization—particularly in refining charging schedules and minimizing peak energy loads. These insights offer valuable lessons for future projects in offshore wind farms, subsea trenching, and other marine infrastructure operations where sustainability is becoming a critical metric.
For professionals in offshore telecommunications and energy infrastructure, the Tiel-Waardenburg project illustrates how environmental responsibility and operational excellence can coexist on a massive scale. It’s an encouraging sign for our industry—and a powerful reminder that the future of offshore construction lies in innovation, cross-sector collaboration, and a deep commitment to sustainability.
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About SA Operations
SA Operations specializes in recruiting highly skilled professionals for offshore and onshore projects in the Oil and gas, Renewables, and maritime industries. Offering comprehensive recruitment, head-hunting, and payroll solutions, the company delivers specialized talent for projects ranging from subsea operations to renewable energy development. SA Operations is committed to providing industry-leading solutions and ensuring seamless project execution for clients across the globe.
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