Penta-Ocean Construction Co., Ltd., led by President and CEO Takuzo Shimizu, announced the signing of a contract with Seatrium Limited on January 27, 2025, to build a new heavy lift vessel (HLV). This vessel will be used for installing offshore wind turbine foundations, as part of Japan's expanding offshore wind power generation efforts.
Japan's offshore wind power sector is focusing on developing bottom-fixed facilities in port areas, with construction in general sea areas expected to increase starting in fiscal year 2028. As offshore wind turbines grow larger, traditional installation vessels struggle with the weight of monopile foundations. As a result, Penta-Ocean Construction is investing in the construction of the world's largest self-propelled HLV, featuring a fully revolving 5,000-ton lifting crane.
The HLV will include a unique U-shaped notch at its stern, allowing it to upend monopiles stored lengthwise using the crane and an upending system equipped with a gripper. This design minimizes ship motion by shielding operations from waves and currents. The vessel's dynamic positioning system (DPS2) ensures safe and efficient installations, even under challenging sea conditions.
The ship’s hull design will be managed by Ulstein Design & Solutions from the Netherlands, known for their expertise in heavy lift vessels. Huisman Equipment, also from the Netherlands, will supply the deck equipment, including the 5,000-ton crane and the monopile upending system. Seatrium Group of Singapore will handle the hull construction, leveraging their extensive experience in offshore and marine engineering.
The new HLV will be jointly owned by a newly established subsidiary of Penta-Ocean Construction and Fuyo General Lease Co., Ltd., each holding 50% ownership. With a construction cost of around JPY 120 billion, the vessel's completion is projected for May 2028, and it is expected to commence operations in the following autumn.
This innovative HLV is anticipated to enhance offshore wind power projects in Japan by supporting the safe and cost-efficient installment of large-scale wind turbine foundations, reinforcing efforts toward a more sustainable energy future.