Decommissioning of a fibre optic cable in the North Sea and Wadden Sea

Description of assignment

Existing fibre optic cables in the North Sea are about 20 years old and are approaching the end of their lifespan. One of the out-of-service fibre optic cable is the TGN-NER system. From 2020 to 2025 TAUW worked on the decommissioning of the TGN-NER system from euNetworks, stretching from Eemshaven to the United Kingdom.

The scope of current project included the decommissioning of the cable from its Beach Manhole (BMH) in Eemshaven up to the Dutch 12 nautical miles limit. For this project euNetworks commissioned McMahon Design & Management (MDM – head office in Dublin). MDM asked TAUW to support them with all relevant permitting work for the decommissioning of the cable from Eemshaven up to the Dutch 12 nautical miles limit. To facilitate this process, TAUW has been commissioned to provide a comprehensive range of environmental consultancy services during the inventory phase of the project. 

TAUW services

The work carried out by TAUW includes:

• Conducting a desk study to identify necessary permits, notifications, and other critical considerations for the cable removal and associated surveys.
  
  
• Performing a site visit to document the current status of the BMH.
  
  
• Engaging in multiple online meetings with authorities, including municipality, Waterboard, Province, Rijkswaterstaat and the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV) and German authorities, to discuss the decommissioning initiative and gather insights on regulatory requirements.
  
  As the cable was located in an area governed by a treaty with Germany (concerning access to marine traffic in Germany). TAUW maintained close contact with the competent authorities in both the Netherlands and Germany to coordinate the execution of the decommissioning works.
  
  
• Applying for permits and obtaining the necessary approvals for the execution of the works, including: approval of the work plan related to the water permit, SRE permit, Wabo permit, confirmation of non-requirement for Nature permits, Provincial permit concerning designated quiet areas, ProRail permit, and notifications to both German and Dutch naval authorities.
  
  
• Mapping stakeholders to evaluate their interests and levels of influence concerning the project, ensuring effective communication and collaboration throughout the process.
  
  
• Conducting an ecological quick-scan to assess potential environmental impacts associated with the cable's removal.

Throughout the entire project duration from 2020 to 2025, TAUW has been responsible for project management and coordination with all relevant authorities, ensuring compliance with regulations and facilitating the smooth progress of the decommissioning process. This ongoing collaboration has been crucial to addressing the challenges posed by ecological considerations and regulatory requirements.

Collaboration

Throughout the ‘TGN-NER Decommissioning’ project, TAUW has maintained a strong and collaborative relationship with the client, euNetworks, and McMahon Design & Management (MDM). Regular communication and coordination meetings have facilitated the exchange of information and feedback, ensuring that project objectives are aligned and met efficiently. TAUW has actively engaged with the client in all phases of the project, from initial planning through to the preparation and submission of permit applications, fostering a partnership built on transparency and trust. This cooperative approach has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of the decommissioning process and achieving successful outcomes for all stakeholders involved.

“Tauw were an excellent partner to work with on the permitting of the TGN Decommissioning project in the Netherlands, providing reliable advice and high quality work and support throughout the project.”​ - Rory Ryan, Project Engineer, MDM

Result

TAUW has prepared and submitted various permit applications, including water permits, Nature Protection Act permits, Wabo permits, and additional notifications. All permits and notifications have been granted, allowing the decommissioning works to be carried out in May 2025.