NKT has announced a groundbreaking addition to its fleet, the NKT Eleonora, a state-of-the-art cable laying vessel designed to enhance offshore cable laying capacity and flexibility. This vessel stands out as one of the first of its kind to be powered by methanol, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of its operations.
The high-voltage power cable market has seen substantial growth in recent years, driven by the global transition to renewable energy and increased electrification. As transmission lines become larger and longer, with an emphasis on minimizing power losses, new standards for cable production and installation are emerging. In response to these demands, NKT is expanding its capabilities.
In May 2023, NKT revealed plans to invest in a new high-voltage factory at its Karlskrona site and the construction of a market-leading vessel. Designed by Salt Ship Design and constructed in collaboration with the Norwegian shipyard VARD, the NKT Eleonora is set to elevate NKT’s operational capacity.
“We are very pleased to welcome NKT Eleonora to our fleet. She is an important strategic asset which enhances our installation capacity and capabilities to ensure efficient project execution and meet the evolving demands of our clients. The decision to build a vessel designed to run on methanol is driven by our strong commitment to sustainability and connecting a greener world through our power cable solutions,” stated Darren Fennell, Executive Vice President and Head of HV Solutions Karlskrona at NKT.
Building on the operational experience and advanced technology of the NKT Victoria, the NKT Eleonora will be equipped with three turntables, offering a power cable-laying capacity of 23,000 tonnes. Additionally, she will be outfitted with a comprehensive range of subsea tooling for precise installation and maintenance of offshore cables.
Parallel to the vessel’s construction, NKT is also expanding its Karlskrona site with a new high-voltage offshore cable factory, both of which are expected to be operational by 2027.
Key facts about NKT Eleonora include:
- Cable laying capacity: 23,000 tonnes on 3 turntables
- Dimensions: 176 meters in length, 32 meters in breadth
- Schedule: Expected operational from 2027
- Fuel: Dual fuel – Methanol and HVO/marine diesel oil
- Engines: Wärtsilä 32 Methanol Engines
- Shipyard: VARD, a Norwegian designer and builder of specialized vessels
- Design: Salt Ship Design
- Main suppliers: ABB (Onboard DC Grid power system and aft Azipod electrical propulsion), Wärtsilä (engine maker, front tunnel, and azimuth thruster), NOV REMACUT (cable lay system, cranes, and mission equipment)
Named “Eleonora,” meaning shining light, the vessel reflects NKT’s pivotal role in power transmission and the bright future ahead, driven by its growth and innovation. Ulrika Eleonora, a Danish princess with Nordic roots, symbolizes NKT’s strong presence in Northern Europe.
