Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and Ta Tong Marine Co., Ltd., through their joint venture Ta San Shang Marine Co. Ltd. (TSSM), have inked a significant deal with Damen Shipyards of the Netherlands to construct a cutting-edge Service Operation Vessel (SOV) to cater to offshore wind farms in Taiwan1.
Enhancing Taiwan’s Offshore Wind Power Industry
Scheduled for delivery in Vietnam by the end of 2025, this new SOV, the second under the Taiwan flag for TSSM after the successful deployment of Asia’s pioneer, the TSS Pioneer, in 2022, will play a pivotal role in supporting Taiwan’s burgeoning offshore wind power industry2. Designed to be methanol-ready as a future fuel, the vessel aims to facilitate the safe transfer of personnel and supplies to offshore wind farms, fostering the growth of Taiwan’s renewable energy sector.
A Green Leap for TSSM and MOL
Masayuki Sugiyama, MOL Executive Officer responsible for the Wind Power Project Unit, expressed optimism about this venture. He highlighted its potential to solidify TSSM’s standing as an SOV player in Taiwan and serve as a stepping stone for MOL’s broader SOV business development across Asia, including Japan. The project aligns with MOL’s commitment to contributing to a net-zero greenhouse gas emission society
TSSM Chairman’s Perspective
Hrong Nain Lin, Chairman of TSSM, emphasized the company’s preparedness to contribute more to the Green Energy Industry. Drawing on their experience operating Asia’s first dedicated offshore wind SOV, Lin sees the Damen CSOV as a valuable force supporting Taiwan’s offshore wind developments and future projects across the Asia-Pacific region. The company remains dedicated to ensuring a safe working environment and comfortable living conditions for technicians and marine crew
Damen Shipyards’ Seal of Approval
Damen Shipyards CEO Arnout Damen expressed honor in welcoming TSSM into the Damen family. He noted the satisfaction in TSSM’s choice of the proven Damen CSOV9020 design, anticipating a significant contribution to Taiwan’s offshore wind sector. Damen looks forward to a fruitful and enduring relationship with TSSM
A Closer Look at the SOV
The new SOV, flying the Taiwan flag, boasts a length of 87.7 meters, breadth of 19.7 meters, and a planned draft of 5.3 meters. With a maximum capacity for 120 crew members and passengers, it incorporates advanced features such as a Dynamic Positioning System (DPS), Motion Compensated Gangway, and Crane
In summary, the collaboration between MOL, Ta Tong Marine, and Damen Shipyards marks a significant stride in advancing Taiwan’s offshore wind power capabilities. The new SOV stands as a testament to the commitment to green energy and a sustainable future.