Kalypso & Partners To Construct A Cable Lay Vessel, 1st Purpose Built For US Offshore Wind Market (2024)

Plans have been announced to construct America’s first Jones Act-compliant cable laying vessel (CLV), a significant achievement for the country’s developing offshore wind sector.

Kalypso Offshore Energy, a New York-based firm, has collaborated with Dutch shipbuilder Royal IHC on this groundbreaking project to strengthen the country’s offshore energy capabilities.

Kalypso Offshore Energy and Royal IHC have recently signed a letter of intent to finalize the contract, engineering, and construction details for the 5,000-ton CLV, which will be delivered in 2028.

This collaboration represents a significant step forward in satisfying the growing need for infrastructure to enable offshore wind projects along the United States coastline.

Kalypso Offshore Energy, led by Colin Smith, a former project manager of DEME, strives to meet the evolving needs of offshore wind operations in the United States.

The company’s CLV, built on US territory, is expected to improve the country’s offshore energy prospects while boosting local economic growth.

The revolutionary vessel, spanning 376 feet (115 meters) in length, will be outfitted with cutting-edge technologies designed exclusively for offshore cable laying operations.

It will feature two carousels with dual product laylines, a customized cable protection system, and a separate enclosed space for cable splicing and maintenance.

The CLV will also include a knuckle boom crane with a capacity of 100 metric tons for offshore construction jobs and an onboard jet trencher.

Derk te Bokkel, CEO of Royal IHC, expressed his satisfaction in leading the creation of this critical contribution to America’s energy transition and security.

He highlighted the importance of this milestone for Royal IHC and the offshore wind sector in the United States, emphasizing the company’s dedication to supporting Kalypso Offshore Energy’s ambitious effort.

Kalypso Offshore Energy’s objectives extend beyond the CLV project. The company is also developing concepts for an Offshore Service Vessel (OSV) to support wind farm construction activities.

The OSV, which has heavy-lift cranes and specific accommodation facilities, is expected to provide critical support at every step of offshore wind farm development.

As the offshore wind energy industry in the United States gains popularity, investments in infrastructure and vessel capabilities are expected to play a critical role in supporting its expansion and development.

Kalypso Offshore Energy’s ambitious initiatives highlight the increasing popularity of the US market and represent a big step forward for the country’s offshore wind objectives.

Reference: Splash 247

About Author

Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.

Read more articles by this author