Initial Steel Construction Commences for Cadeler's Third Wind Turbine Foundation Installation Ship
The first steel for Cadeler's A-class wind farm installation vessel, Wind Apex, has been cut at the COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry shipyard in China, marking the start of the fabrication and construction phase for the highly anticipated vessel.
The steel cutting ceremony for the Wind Apex, held recently, signifies that the vessel is still in the development phase, and a delivery date has not been formally announced yet. However, it is scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2027.
The Wind Apex is designed to transport and install seven complete 15 MW turbine sets per load or six sets of 2XL monopile foundations. It will boast a deck space of 5,600 square metres and a payload of more than 17,000 tonnes, providing ample space and capacity to carry out its crucial role in the renewable energy sector.
The vessel will be equipped with advanced technology, with Kongsberg Maritime's technology package on board. A crane for the A-class ships will be supplied by Huisman, ensuring efficient and safe lifting operations.
To illuminate the exterior and interior of the NG 20000F A-Class vessel, Norway's Glamox will provide 2,342 marine LED lights. These lights will be used in various areas, including the bridge, internal stairways, galleys, corridors, crew quarters, the engine room, and the exterior of the newbuild.
Cadeler placed an order for its third A-class wind farm installation vessel in May 2024, with a contract price of approximately USD 400 million. Upon delivery, Wind Apex will join Cadeler's growing fleet of wind farm installation vessels, further strengthening the company's position in the renewable energy industry.
As the world continues to transition towards renewable energy sources, the Wind Apex is set to play a significant role in the installation and maintenance of offshore wind farms, contributing to a more sustainable future.
In the promising future of renewable energy, the Wind Apex, with its scheduled delivery in 2027, will carry a whopping payload of more than 17,000 tonnes, making its way through the market as a crucial player in the renewable energy sector. The state-of-the-art vessel will be fortified by Kongsberg Maritime's technology, strategically ensuring its compatibility with the fast-evolving technology industry. Concurrently, the financing behind this initiative indicates a considerable investment in the renewable energy industry, with Cadeler having spent approximately USD 400 million on its third A-class wind farm installation vessel.
