Hanwha Ocean has begun construction of a new wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV), marking the start of a project intended to support the deployment of large-scale offshore wind turbines in South Korea.
The company held a steel-cutting ceremony to mark the beginning of construction, with the vessel expected to be used for installing 15MW-class offshore wind turbines in the country’s West Sea after delivery. Hanwha Ocean said the project covers both the construction and future operation of the vessel.
According to Hanwha Ocean, the WTIV incorporates design improvements developed over the past decade to support the installation of next-generation offshore wind turbines.
The vessel will be equipped with a crane offering more than twice the lifting capacity of existing domestically built WTIVs. It will also feature legs extended by 18 metres to improve operational capability in deeper waters and more challenging offshore conditions.
The company said the vessel will be capable of transporting up to four complete sets of 15MW-class wind turbines, supporting more efficient offshore installation campaigns.
Hanwha Ocean said the vessel will be fitted with a dynamic positioning system engineered to operate in tidal ranges of up to 11 metres, enabling stable positioning during offshore installation work.
The WTIV has also been designed to comply with DNV safety standards and includes an evacuation system intended to allow crew members to safely evacuate even if the vessel heels by as much as 90 degrees.
Energy Storage System Aims to Improve Efficiency
In addition to its installation capabilities, the vessel will incorporate an energy storage system to improve engine efficiency by utilizing stored electrical power during operations.
Hanwha Ocean said the combination of enhanced lifting performance, operational flexibility and energy-efficient technologies is intended to support the growing offshore wind industry in South Korea.