Collaboration for Floating Offshore Wind Turbines: MOL and Fukada Salvage & Marine Works Join Forces

Japanese shipping giant Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) has partnered with Fukada Salvage & Marine Works to explore collaboration on transportation and installation vessels for floating offshore wind turbines. This alliance marks a significant step towards enhancing the offshore wind sector in Japan.

The Growing Importance of Floating Offshore Wind Turbines

Floating offshore wind turbines are becoming increasingly popular due to Japan’s limited shallow coastal areas. These turbines are typically assembled at a port and then towed to the installation site by anchor-handling vessels. Once in position, a mooring system comprising anchors and mooring lines is used to maintain their stability.

Preparing for Future Growth

With the Japanese government aiming to deploy 10 GW of offshore wind capacity by 2030 and 30-45 GW by 2040, there is a pressing need for advanced vessels and infrastructure to support the industry’s expansion. MOL and Fukada Salvage & Marine Works are working towards establishing a joint ownership and operation system for new vessels capable of transporting and installing floating offshore wind turbines. They are also developing a procurement framework for mooring systems in anticipation of the sector’s growth in the 2030s.

Supporting Japan’s Offshore Wind Industry

As Japan looks to boost its domestic procurement for offshore wind projects, MOL and Fukada Salvage & Marine Works are positioning themselves to play a key role in supporting the country’s offshore wind industry. MOL, as Japan’s largest shipowner, has been expanding its offshore wind business in Asia, while Fukada has diversified its operations to include towing and installation work for the domestic floating offshore wind market.

Commitment to Seamless Operations

In a joint statement, the companies expressed their commitment to supporting power generation companies by minimizing interface risks associated with vessel and mooring system procurement. By providing reliable and efficient transportation and installation services, MOL and Fukada Salvage & Marine Works aim to facilitate the smooth progression of offshore wind projects in Japan.