On October 15, CIMC Raffles, a subsidiary of CIMC Group, successfully delivered the offshore wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV) “Norse Wind” to DEME on time, a leading Belgian marine engineering company.
The delivery marks another milestone in China’s continued leadership in the global high-end offshore equipment manufacturing sector.
The Norse Wind project is the first vessel in the NG20000X series, representing the world’s first WTIV designed with a full DC power distribution system. Unlike conventional vessels, this new-generation WTIV consumes significantly more electrical power during jacking and lifting operations. The DC power system overcomes the inefficiencies and high energy consumption of traditional AC systems. By intelligently controlling generator speeds, it reduces fuel consumption, enhances operational efficiency, and improves environmental performance.
(Image credit: CIMC Raffles)
As a flagship project supporting Europe’s clean energy transition, the Norse Wind is equipped with a DP2 system, featuring exceptional deck load capacity and lifting performance. The vessel is capable of transporting and installing multiple types of wind turbines, meeting the demanding operational conditions of the North Sea continental shelf.
Compared with previous generations, Norse Wind is fitted with a 3,200-ton main crane and the latest hybrid battery propulsion system. Notably, the battery system can fully replace the output of one main engine—a technological breakthrough that reduces carbon emissions per megawatt installed by more than 70%. After delivery, the vessel will be deployed to the Nordsee Cluster wind farm in Germany, contributing to the generation of more clean energy for the world.
(Image credit: CIMC Raffles)
It is worth mentioning that the Norse Wind project, one of the most highly automated wind turbine installation vessels today, has been successfully delivered and highly commended by the shipowner and DNV. Both parties expressed recognition for CIMC’s professional technical capabilities and its performance in delivering the project on time with high quality. Next, the vessel will be deployed at the German NordseeCluster wind farm, contributing more clean energy to the world.
Looking ahead, CIMC Raffles will continue to work closely with global partners to advance offshore engineering and clean energy development, creating more “national engineering marvels” and writing a new blue chapter toward achieving global carbon neutrality.
