Dogger Bank Wind Farm, Yorkshire, UK

Project Overview

As part of the Dogger Bank B phase of the world’s largest offshore wind farm, Hitachi Energy appointed Dura Composites to supply low embodied carbon, high-performance GRP trench covers for the new high-voltage cable infrastructure at the onshore converter station in East Riding.

To support safe and reliable energy transmission, GRP d² Dura Slab Type 75 trench covers were installed across outdoor cable trenches and conduits – specified in dark grey with D400 and C250 load ratings to withstand heavy-duty operational demands. In addition, green d² Dura Grating Solid Top trench covers with A15 rating were used in designated pedestrian areas, enhancing visibility and compliance with site zoning requirements.

To further improve on-site safety, 12mm Dura Tread Solid Plate anti-slip panels were fitted in key walkways, offering exceptional underfoot grip in all weathers.

The innovative GRP covers are compatible with a wide range of trench types, including precast flat top and recess-formed concrete troughs, and feature integrated manual lifting eyes for easy removal during maintenance. Their high strength-to-weight ratio makes them ideal for this critical energy site, where accessibility and safety are paramount.

Delivering secure, low-maintenance sustainable infrastructure for the UK’s energy future.

Dogger Bank Wind Farm is a joint venture between SSE Renewables (40%), Equinor (40%) and Vårgrønn (20%), set to generate renewable power for 6 million UK homes per year from 2026. Once complete, it will significantly contribute to the UK government’s target of 40 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 and achieving a 68% reduction in carbon emissions.

Supporting these sustainability goals, Dura’s pultruded and moulded GRP trench covers offer full recyclability at end of use and lower embodied carbon than alternative solutions as well as corrosion resistance, minimal maintenance, and exceptional durability – all without the weight and drawbacks of traditional concrete or steel alternatives.

With decades of experience in trench and access cover solutions, Dura Composites supported Hitachi Energy with product guidance, specification support, and tailored recommendations to suit both standard and bespoke trench geometries. Where required, project consultations were carried out by Dura’s experienced technical team to ensure accurate fitment and optimal performance.

These versatile GRP products are ideal for use in overlay crossings, cable pits, and other high-voltage infrastructure applications. By combining innovative design with market-leading material technology, Dura Composites helped deliver a future-ready, safe, and efficient solution that will perform reliably for the projected 35-year operational life of the wind farm.

As a critical element of the UK’s energy infrastructure, Dogger Bank Wind Farm demands robust, low-maintenance solutions that can withstand extreme conditions while allowing easy access for inspection and maintenance.

Dura Composites’ unique d² GRP trench covers have delivered exactly that – a safe, durable, and high-performance solution that has been seamlessly integrated into the converter station’s outdoor infrastructure. The collaborative approach between us and the team at Hitachi, combined with our extensive industry knowledge helped us achieve our goals safely and efficiently.

Joe Hunt

Industrial Manager at Dura Composites

Our Specialists

Our innovative recyclable products can help accelerate the construction of critical infrastructure. Talk to our experienced team about how you can tap into our specialist knowledge and engineering capability for your project.