In a bid to address the evolving needs of the U.S. offshore wind energy sector, Kalypso Offshore Energy, a startup venture, has unveiled plans to construct the inaugural U.S. cable vessel. Set to be a groundbreaking Cable Lay Vessel, it aims to align with Jones Act regulations, catering specifically to the demands of the offshore wind market.
Established in 2023, Kalypso is committed to capitalizing on the burgeoning opportunities within the emerging offshore wind industry. Its maiden endeavor involves a letter of intent inked with Dutch shipbuilding titan, Royal IHC, to materialize the development of this pioneering cable vessel. With Royal’s extensive expertise spanning dredging and offshore energy domains, the collaborative effort is poised to finalize the contractual, engineering, and construction aspects of the project. The target timeline for the vessel’s debut is slated for 2028.
The forthcoming 8,000 deadweight tonnage (dwt) cable vessel is slated to boast two carousels equipped with dual product lay lines, alongside tailored storage and handling solutions. Furthermore, it will be outfitted for cable splicing and repairs, complemented by a formidable crane boasting a capacity of 100 metric tons and onboard jet trencher capabilities. With dimensions reaching 376 feet (115 meters), the vessel is poised to make significant strides in offshore wind infrastructure.
Colin Smith, Managing Director of Kalypso, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Royal IHC, asserting, “Kalypso’s CLV will enhance the nation’s offshore energy prospects and foster local economic growth,” underscoring the vessel’s potential to catalyze the nation’s renewable energy agenda.
Kalypso underscores the pivotal role its vessel will play in bolstering the U.S. market’s capabilities, earmarking it as the pioneer dedicated vessel of its kind. John Begala, Vice President of State and Federal Policy at the Oceantic Network, emphasized the significance of upgrading the nation’s capabilities in cable installation and repair, essential yet often overlooked aspects of the offshore wind industry.
The announcement of the cable vessel coincided with Dominion’s revelation of the inaugural wind turbine installation vessel constructed in the United States. This convergence underscores the burgeoning symbiosis between the offshore wind energy and shipbuilding sectors.
U.S. rock installation vessel underscores the momentum driving investments, with nearly $3.5 billion earmarked across various offshore wind shipbuilding projects, manufacturing facilities, and ports.
In addition to the cable vessel, Kalypso is also poised to introduce designs for an Offshore Support Vessel (OSV), tailored to meet the multifaceted demands of wind farm construction. Equipped with heavy-lift cranes, expansive deck space, and specialized accommodation facilities, this OSV promises to provide comprehensive support across every phase of offshore wind farm construction.
With Kalypso spearheading innovative initiatives to fortify the nation’s offshore wind capabilities, the horizon seems promising for the U.S. renewable energy landscape.
Source:The maritime Executive
