Ulstein has expanded its portfolio with the Ulstein HX122 design, featuring an Ulstein X-BOW and an ultra-high-capacity crane.
This will enable operators and contractors to efficiently transport and install monopiles or jacket foundations up to 5000 tonnes, according to the company.
Ulstein Design & Solutions marketing and sales manager Nick Wessels said: “Based on extensive market studies we developed what we believe is the most efficient solution for the industry – the Ulstein HX118 design
“However, the quick developments in this industry create uncertainty with wind farm developers, where we see for some future projects the preference to install even larger foundations up to 5,000 tonnes.
“Hence the need for a larger capacity vessel.”
Ulstein Design & Solutions product manager Ko Stroo added: “Significant R&D effort has been put into the development of our heavy lift vessel portfolio, working closely with industry partners on mission equipment integration, operability performance and lowering CO2 emissions, creating safer and more efficient installation vessels using proven technologies.
“The ULSTEIN HX122 is our latest and largest heavy lift vessel design, allowing contractors to keep pace with the rapid growth of wind turbine foundations.”