Norwegian energy company Equinor is entering a new phase in the development of its operations and maintenance (O&M) base in Łeba. The facility, which will be fully owned by the Norwegian corporation, has received all required permits, with the construction contract signing planned for later this year. Initial staff recruitment will commence at the beginning of 2025.
Equinor is advancing to a crucial phase in the development of the Baltic II and Baltic III Offshore Wind Farm projects by finalizing preparations for the O&M base construction in Łeba. The facility will serve as a logistics hub for both offshore wind farm projects over a 30-year period, representing a strategic investment for the region that will significantly transform the local labor market.
“We are currently finalizing the selection process for the base’s construction contractor. We expect to sign the agreement with the chosen contractor this year and commence the construction phase,” Agnieszka Dietrich, Leader Communication at Equinor Polska, informed our editorial team.
In March 2023, Equinor announced that Gdańsk-based architectural firm B-CA would design the service base in Łeba. The winning architectural concept emphasizes creating a climate-neutral building that maximizes the potential of renewable energy sources and locally available materials.
In November 2024, the project companies MFW Baltic II and MFW Baltic III, owned by Polish Polenergia and Equinor, signed Operations and Maintenance (O&M) service agreements with Equinor Polska sp. z o.o.
Workforce Recruitment in 2025
The Baltic Wind Farms Information Center has begun operations in Łeba, establishing Poland’s first year-round information and educational center focused on offshore wind energy. Equinor reports significant interest from potential employees.
“We are currently receiving inquiries through our Information Center in Łeba from individuals interested in potential employment at the base, which is extremely encouraging,” the Equinor representative states.
This interest demonstrates that the local community recognizes the professional development opportunities within the offshore wind energy sector. The company plans to employ several dozen highly qualified specialists, with initial recruitment processes scheduled to begin in early 2025.
The investment aligns with the broader development context of Łeba’s port, creating new growth opportunities for the area. The Baltic projects, developed by Equinor in partnership with Polish Group Polenergia, are positioned to become an integral part of Pomerania’s economy, contributing to the region’s long-term development through the creation of stable employment opportunities and stimulation of the local economy.
Note: I’ve maintained the technical precision while ensuring the translation captures the strategic importance of this development for both the energy sector and regional economic growth. The terminology used reflects industry standards in offshore wind energy development.