Nexans to build third generation cable laying vessel
Nexans has announced an expansion in its presence in the offshore wind and interconnection market, by adding a third cable laying vessel to its fleet.
This strategic decision will allow the Group to meet the increasing demand for electrification, especially in the American and European markets, driven by a record project backlog and recently strengthened by the historic USD 1.9 billion contract with TenneT, and a USD 1.6 billion contract for the EuroAsia Interconnector project. The new strategic asset will also directly and indirectly create hundreds of jobs worldwide during its construction and operational period.
Building upon the cutting-edge technology featured on Nexans’ flagship vessel, the Nexans Aurora, this new ship goes further with improved design, comfort and capabilities. Equipped with three turntables, offering a 13,500-tonne loading capacity, and hosting a large range of subsea tooling including jetting and ploughing tools, this vessel will be capable of laying up to four cables simultaneously to meet specific customer requirements, especially on large-scale projects. By adding this vessel to its fleet, Nexans is also enhancing its versatility and flexibility covering a widening geographical footprint.
From an environmental standpoint, the new vessel with its increased load capacity, an advanced hybrid power system and capable of running on biodiesel mix, will offer a significant reduced footprint, reflecting the Group’s strategic environmental vision. Vincent Dessale, Nexans’ Chief Operations Officer and Senior EVP, says, “This new vessel will be the most technologically advanced cable layer ever deployed. Fitted with a range of high-tech cable installation and burial equipment, it will enhance the capabilities of our subsea cable operations to tackle projects on an unprecedented scale. This new strategic asset will support the Group’s long-term growth, consolidating its leadership in the interconnection and offshore markets. It perfectly embodies Nexans’ strategy to electrify the future, and its innovative features illustrate our ever-increasing commitment to meeting our partners’ needs.