Denmark: Many Contracts for Anholt Offshore Project Went to Local Firms

In connection with the construction of Anholt offshore wind farm, DONG Energy has put the various contracts out to public tender, and many orders have gone to local companies, either directly or indirectly.

Small businesses often struggle to make an impact with their bids when large companies such as DONG Energy put projects out to tender. A number of small and medium-sized businesses in Jutland have now found a solution to this problem. And the result has been outstanding – also for DONG Energy.

30 businesses and two organisations have gone in together to form the business network DJURS Wind Power, and 21 of the businesses have already won orders to a value of more than DKK 150 million in connection with the construction of Anholt offshore wind farm.

“The Anholt project shows that the Danish suppliers in the industry can hold their own internationally. All the  work was put out to tender on equal EU conditions, but Danish-based companies won two thirds of the orders. Many local firms have been awarded orders via our main supplier,” says Flemming Thomsen, Project Director of Anholt offshore wind farm.

Local businesses in stronger position

DONG Energy strongly encourages competition. Notwithstanding this, most of the companies that have won orders in connection with Anholt offshore wind farm are Danish. That is because DONG’s main supplier found their prices competitive.

When local companies become involved, DONG Energy senses an increased commitment. At the same time, it helps create jobs and underpin the company’s wish to stimulate green growth.

”Who would normally associate a joinery firm with an offshore wind farm? But the small joinery firm Aalsrode Tømrerfirma A/S has actually won orders  to a double-digit value for the refurbishment of the operating and maintenance buildings at the harbour at Grenaa. They won the order directly from DONG Energy. We strongly encourage competition, and we are delighted that small businesses, too, have been able to be competitive, via their network, and win the orders this way,” says Flemming Thomsen.

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Offshore WIND staff, August 16, 2012; Image: DONG Energy