Decompass

Decompass (“Decommissioning Compass”) is a research project that develops a quantitative model to assess the economic and environmental sustainability of various offshore wind farm decommissioning strategies. In doing so, it responds to the growing need for sustainable end-of-life practices as more and more European wind turbines reach their average operational lifespan of 25 years. By 2030, an estimated 1,800 wind turbines will be decommissioned in Europe.

The main objective of the project is to develop a “decommissioning compass”: an integrated decision-support tool that helps governments, companies, and researchers select the most sustainable and efficient decommissioning scenarios. This compass combines economic, technical, ecological, social, and policy insights to enable well-informed decision-making.

Through Decompass, we focus on four central pillars:

1. Advanced decommissioning techniques: research into sustainable and technically feasible methods for removing foundations and other structures, with minimal disturbance to the marine environment.

2. Spatial and logistical optimisation: analysis of the capacity and infrastructure requirements of (industrial) ports to efficiently support large-scale decommissioning.

3. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and circular economy: evaluation of material flows and recycling options, with attention to the reuse of scarce raw materials and waste reduction.

4. Ecological modelling: assessment of the impacts of decommissioning on marine ecosystems and ecosystem services.

These research results are integrated into a quantitative assessment platform that compares different decommissioning scenarios based on technical feasibility, economic costs and benefits, and environmental impacts. This platform forms the core of the Decompass tool and enables better-informed, future-proof policy and investment decisions.

Decompass distinguishes itself through its multidisciplinary approach, bringing together partners from the quadruple helix (government, industry, knowledge institutions, and civil society). By actively engaging stakeholders, we contribute to innovation, knowledge sharing, and the development of a supportive policy framework.

Project funded by