Boskalis, a key player in the maritime and logistics sector, has announced its latest project involving the transportation of 66 suction bucket jacket foundations and an offshore substation (OSS) for Ørsted’s Greater Changhua 2b and 4 offshore wind farm in Taiwan. The operation is set to begin at the end of 2024, marking another significant contribution to the global energy transition.
To undertake this colossal task, Boskalis will deploy four of its semi-submersible heavy transport vessels: Black Marlin, Blue Marlin, Mighty Servant 3, and Transshelf. These ships will ferry the massive foundations and the OSS from Singapore/Batam and the port of Taichung to the designated wind farm site in the Taiwan Strait. This logistical feat underscores the company’s capability in handling complex maritime transport operations.
Boskalis has a storied history of transporting a wide array of large-scale cargoes across the globe. Their fleet has moved everything from towering offshore structures and vast drydocks to innovative fish farms and even luxurious cruise ships. Recently, the focus has shifted towards supporting the burgeoning offshore wind energy sector. The company has been instrumental in transporting essential components such as monopiles, jacket foundations, and extensive power cables, which are crucial for channeling electricity generated at sea to onshore grids.
For this specific project, the Transshelf will undergo modifications to maximize its cargo capacity. Previously equipped with three modular cable carousels for another offshore wind project, these carousels will be removed to accommodate the OSS topside for the Greater Changhua initiative. This adaptability showcases the versatility of Boskalis’ fleet, capable of transforming to meet the diverse demands of modern energy infrastructure projects.
The involvement of Boskalis in the Greater Changhua 2b and 4 offshore wind farm not only highlights their expertise in maritime logistics but also their commitment to facilitating the global shift towards renewable energy. By efficiently transporting vital components to support the construction of offshore wind farms, Boskalis is playing a pivotal role in the global push for sustainable energy solutions.