Nekkar, through its recent acquisition of Techano Group, has successfully secured a contract to deliver an offshore crane for a state-of-the-art cable-lay support vessel. The vessel, currently under construction by Sefine Shipyard, is being built on behalf of Agalas, a prominent Norwegian shipowner.
Under the terms of the agreement, Nekkar will provide a cutting-edge offshore crane weighing 70 tonnes. This versatile crane is designed to handle a range of operations, including subsea installation and removal, as well as topside 3D-compensated lifting tasks associated with offshore wind farm developments and operations. Equipped with a knuckle boom and an active heave compensated (AHC) winch with a 2000-meter wire for subsea operations, the crane also features a separate 3-tonne 3D active motion-compensated lifting tool for topside lifts.
The crane boasts Intellilift's advanced control system and motion-compensating technology, ensuring optimal performance and safety. Nekkar will oversee the engineering and project management aspects of the operation from its headquarters in Kristiansand, Norway.
Upon completion, the fully assembled crane will be delivered to Nekkar's contract partner, Sefine Shipyard in Turkey, in the year 2024.
NSK Ship Design, a Norway-based company, has played a crucial role in the project by designing the dual-fuel methanol vessel. This vessel measures 99 meters in length, 21 meters in width, and is equipped with a battery pack. Its design specifically caters to the installation of inter-array cables in offshore wind farms.
In addition to cable installation, the vessel can be utilized across various sectors of the offshore industry, including light construction and cable repair. This versatility adds to its commercial appeal, benefitting both the shipowner and wind farm operators by reducing operating costs.
Øystein Bondevik, Nekkar's Director of Business Development and Sales, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We have developed a crane that is ideal for vessels operating on offshore wind farms. It can perform subsea lifting operations and is capable of supporting wind farm operations with the lifting of equipment and tools necessary for the operation and maintenance of wind turbines. This innovative solution not only enhances the shipowner's commercial potential but also contributes to reducing operating costs for wind farm operators.”
Nekkar's successful acquisition of Techano Group and its subsequent contract win for the offshore crane signify the company's commitment to advancing technological solutions in the maritime industry, particularly in the thriving offshore wind sector. With their expertise and cutting-edge equipment, Nekkar continues to position itself as a leading provider of innovative solutions for offshore operations.
