6/2/2022 -

XLCC, a new HVDC, renewable energy-focused business in the U.K., has completed the concept design of an advanced, first-of-a-kind cable laying (CL) vessel—the XLCC CLV—to be delivered in the first half of 2025.

A press release said that the planned delivery of the XLCC CLV will support the Morocco, a U.K. power project that will require the delivery of four 3,800-km subsea HVDC cables from a wind and solar generation site in Morocco to the U.K. “Our vessel will be, on delivery, the most sophisticated, capable and green cable layer in the world,” said Alan Mathers, XLCC Director comments. “With this capability, we will be able to deliver on increasing demands globally for HVDC cable deployment and fill a current and future void in the market.”

In close collaboration with Salt Ship Design, the team has started the development of the basic design of the vessel while working towards the selection of a successful yard. The vessel design is being developed from basic design stage in 3D engineering software for best definition of steel structures and interiors arrangement. Operational aspects of the cable handling have been studied in close collaboration with MAATS Tech and Global Marine.

Asked by WJI what specifically will make the XLCC CLV the most advanced cable-laying ship ever, the company provided the below comments.

“Cable capacity is approximately double the largest CLVs in the present market. In laying significantly more cable per round trip, corresponding savings can be found in transit, time, and emissions. The speed of the loading the cable is significantly improved when compared to the industry standard. Cable loading has been aligned with production facilities, resulting in major time savings spent at harbor.

“The DC lay has been optimized with the two carousels below deck of the same capacity each. The vessel speed in transit is improved and optimized both for loaded condition and for returning to port empty. Transit speed loaded is approximately 15 knots, 16 knots returning to port.

“Unique to XLCC’s CLV is a hangar length of approximately 110 m. The vessel design, with its superstructure, is more aftship than typical, with the continuous hangar area in the vessel length above the carousels. The CLV will be prepared for future fuels (LOHC and methanol) with zero to low emission. Preparations for two alternative fuels in addition to MGO gives flexibility and ability to meet zero-emission operations in the future.”

Oman Australia Cable nears final step with completion of last cable landing