Creating a future-ready port in Brunsbüttel
What is the challenge?
LNG (liquefied natural gas) is currently imported using floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs). This temporary solution allows for rapid deployment but is less suitable for providing a long-term, large-scale energy supply.
To enable more efficient and permanent LNG imports, a fixed terminal is being developed in Brunsbüttel. The new marine jetty is an essential part of this infrastructure. LNG carriers will be able to berth at the jetty, where the LNG will be unloaded and converted back into gas on site. It will then be distributed through the existing gas network.
Planning
Construction of the marine jetty began in summer 2025 and is expected to be completed by mid-2027. The project is currently in the construction phase.
The works are being carried out by Ballast Nedam Infra in collaboration with Hakkers Waterbouw, on behalf of main contractor CS Gas North (Cobra and Sener). The client is German LNG Terminal GmbH.
Approach
- Design and planning
In collaboration with the client, we developed a buildable and cost-efficient design, including the design of temporary works. - Risk management
Risks were identified at an early stage, discussed and allocated between the parties involved. - Contract development
Clear agreements provide the foundation for efficient collaboration and delivery. - Construction preparation
Thorough preparation helps ensure safe and predictable project delivery. - Construction
Construction of the marine jetty is under way, with Ballast Nedam Infra responsible for delivery, including project management, quality assurance and maintaining a safe working environment. - Completion
Once construction is complete, the jetty will be handed over as part of the permanent LNG infrastructure.
Scope
As part of this project, Ballast Nedam Infra is responsible for:
- Design of temporary works
- Supply and installation of foundation piles
- Supply and installation of steel structures
- Construction of concrete structures, both precast, including elements supplied by Haitsma, and in-situ, including reinforcement
Progress
During construction, an important milestone was reached with the successful installation of all major monopiles for the jetty, as well as the foundation piles for the T, Jetty 1 and Jetty 2 platforms and the connecting roadway trestles between the platforms and the shore. In total, 16 heavy-duty monopiles with diameters of up to approximately 3.2 metres were installed for the mooring and fender systems, along with 181 foundation piles with a diameter of 1.6 metres.
These foundation piles form the basis of the berthing facilities and will accommodate two berths: one for large LNG carriers and one for smaller vessels.
This phase highlights the technical complexity of the project, bringing together marine construction, logistics and international collaboration. With every milestone achieved, the terminal’s marine infrastructure moves closer to becoming operational, strengthening its role in Europe’s energy security and energy transition.
Intended result
The new marine jetty will enable the port to accommodate large LNG carriers on a permanent basis, making it a crucial link in Germany’s energy imports.
The jetty will be equipped to accommodate vessels with a capacity of up to 267,000 m³. In addition to the main berth, a second berth will be constructed for smaller LNG bunker vessels and barges.