The companies heard presentations given by the management and the technical department of Femern, the company planning the scheme.
According to Femern, nine international consortia are already participating in the tender for the construction of the tunnel itself. The two new contracts cover the ‘inner workings’ of the Fehmarnbelt tunnel – its electrical and mechanical installations as well as the power supply facilities for the tunnel’s operation, including the establishment of a new substation.
The tender process will continue in February with the launch of the prequalification procedure. Interested consortia will have until May this year to apply for prequalification. Over the summer, Femern will select the prequalified consortia and then initiate the bidding rounds for the two contracts.
Steen Lykke, technical director of Femern, said: "Given today’s participation of so many highly experienced companies, we anticipate strong competition between the consortia applying for these contracts. The requirements are very tough, but after all, it is a great opportunity to take part in the construction of the longest rail and road tunnel under the sea."
The Danish parliament is set to vote on the construction act for the Fehmarnbelt tunnel between late 2014 and early 2015. In Germany, the plan approval decision is expected in summer 2015. Construction works will begin once the project has been approved in both countries. The construction of the Fehmarnbelt tunnel will be completed at the end of 2021.
