NKT Begins Construction of New Cable-Laying Vessel
Danish power cable manufacturer NKT has officially commenced the construction of its new cable-laying vessel (CLV), named NKT Eleonora. This significant milestone was marked by a keel-laying ceremony held on January 15 at one of VARD’s facilities in Romania. The event comes just two months after the first steel was cut for the vessel in early November 2024. This new vessel is set to enhance NKT’s capabilities in the offshore cable market, which is crucial for the global energy transition.
A Commitment to Offshore Cable Installation
Darren Fennell, Executive Vice President and Head of HV Solutions at NKT, expressed the company’s commitment to advancing offshore cable installation. He stated, “With NKT Eleonora, we are reinforcing our leading position in the global offshore cable market with unmatched installation capabilities.” This statement underscores NKT’s dedication to investing in energy infrastructure that supports the green transition. The keel-laying ceremony symbolizes not just the start of construction but also NKT’s strategic vision for the future of offshore energy solutions.
The NKT Eleonora is designed to meet the growing demand for efficient and sustainable cable-laying operations. As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, the need for robust infrastructure becomes increasingly important. NKT’s investment in this new vessel aligns with the company’s goal to provide innovative solutions that facilitate the installation of high-voltage cables. This is essential for connecting offshore wind farms and other renewable energy projects to the grid, thereby supporting the global push for cleaner energy.
Advanced Features and Future Prospects
The NKT Eleonora will be equipped with cutting-edge technology to enhance its operational efficiency. The vessel will run on both methanol and HVO/marine diesel oil, featuring Wärtsilä 32 methanol engines. This dual-fuel capability reflects NKT’s commitment to sustainability and reducing emissions in offshore operations. Additionally, the vessel will include advanced systems supplied by industry leaders. Wärtsilä will provide the front tunnel and azimuth thruster, while NOV REMACUT will supply the cable lay system, cranes, and mission equipment. ABB will deliver its Onboard DC Grid power distribution system, ensuring efficient energy management onboard.
Measuring 176.5 meters in length, the NKT Eleonora will have a cable-laying capacity of 23,000 tonnes, thanks to its three turntables. This impressive capacity positions NKT to handle large-scale projects effectively. The company announced its investment in the NKT Eleonora alongside plans for a new high-voltage factory in Karlskrona, Sweden, which is expected to become operational by 2027. With a record order backlog and a strong market outlook, NKT is poised to play a significant role in the future of offshore energy infrastructure.
