The Cosco Shipping Shipyard in Nantong, China, has laid the keel for Jan De Nul’s new offshore jack-up installation vessel Voltaire. It will be the first vessel of its kind on the market able to transport, lift and install the next generation offshore wind turbines and their ever larger foundations.

The ceremony took place 25 March in the presence of Jan De Nul’s, Cosco’s and Bureau Veritas’ representatives.

The vessel is said to have better operational limits compared to the existing jack-ups. The larger deck space will also enable to optimise installations at sea and to lower fuel consumption and emissions. It will also be deployable for the oil and gas industry, and for decommissioning of offshore structures.

Also read: Construction kicks off for Jan De Nul’s new 5000-tonne crane vessel

ULEv

All these activities will be performed in a sustainable way thanks to lower fuel consumptions and emissions through Jan De Nul’s in-house developed ULEv technique (Ultra Low Emission vessel). The Voltaire will also be the very first seaworthy EU Stage V-certified offshore installation vessel with ultra-low emissions in the world.

The Voltaire is equipped with a main crane of over 3000 tonnes and a DP2 system. The vessel has an operating depth of over 80 metres, a payload of about 14,000 tonnes and accommodation for 110 persons. With its four legs, the Voltaire can lift itself above sea level for stable working conditions. It will be delivered in 2022.

Jan De Nul Voltaire

Also read: First contract for Jan De Nul’s record-breaking jack-up vessel