If the plans for, among other things, power-to-x and a wheat refinery at Nakskov Harbor are to become a reality, it will require a significant expansion of Nakskov’s harbor capacity. The initial preliminary studies have now been completed, and the technical foundation is gradually falling into place.
An important part of these preliminary studies has been geotechnical drilling and seismic measurements, aimed at mapping the subsoil in the area surrounding the harbor. The studies have revealed that the area consists of glacial deposits—primarily sand and softer sediments like gyttja. This is far from ideal as a foundation for harbor constructions, making it necessary to dig deeper to find more stable layers of moraine clay. These layers are more suitable for supporting the heavier harbor constructions required for a future expanded harbor.
Seismic studies have also provided a detailed picture of the stratification of the soil. This mapping is crucial for planning where and how the harbor can be expanded most effectively.
Low biodiversity area
In addition to the geotechnical and seismic studies, a series of extensive environmental surveys has been conducted. These show that the area has relatively low biodiversity, dominated by a silty surface with filamentous algae and slime. The marine ecosystem shows signs of being a deposition area for decayed organic material, likely eelgrass. The near non-existent biodiversity is good news, as it indicates that the harbor expansion will not impact valuable or sensitive habitats.
Technical and economic assessments await
Next in line is a detailed technical and economic assessment of the harbor expansion. The strategic plan for Nakskov Harbor aims for a significant expansion, which will not only increase the harbor’s capacity but also ensure it can accommodate larger ships and heavier cargo in the future. Vestas already manufactures wind turbine blades up to 115.5 meters in length. The transport ships for these blades are so large that Nakskov Harbor is currently operating close to its capacity limits.
