Ulstein vows to fill heavy lift shortage hole

Market analysts are projecting a shortage of specialised equipment as soon as 2025, putting the future of offshore wind farms at risk.

Ulstein believes its proven, off-the-shelf heavy lift vessels, in particular its HX118 design, can help reduce that risk.

“We worked for four years on the development of this design, using our unique ‘Ulstein Blended Design’ methodology, CFD simulations, and knowledge gained from the ALFA LIFT design and Aegir conversion,” said Ko Stroo, lead naval architect and product manager in Ulstein Design & Solutions.

“Combining our vast track record in heavy lift vessels with business case analysis and latest installation technologies resulted in what basically is the Mk3 version of our SOC 5000 design.”

The ULSTEIN HX118 design is the third evolution of the ULSTEIN SOC 5000 design, of which several vessels are currently in operation or under construction, including Heerema’s ‘Aegir’ and Subsea 7’s ‘Seven Borealis’.

Developed to handle the next-generation foundations, monopiles as well as jackets, the design features a 5,000mt main crane with large lifting heights and a large, strong open deck. Methanol powered generators, an optimised hull design and smart integration of battery systems ensure low emissions during operations and when in port.

“We have already received favourable pricings on this HLV design from multiple yards worldwide,” added managing director Edwin van Leeuwen. “All ingredients are available to the industry to push the button, get into a yard contract and get delivery in 2025.”