On December 10, 2024, Penta-Ocean Construction announced its plan to construct two vessels for the offshore wind power sector: a large-scale heavy-lift vessel (HLV) and a large cable-laying vessel (CLV). The total investment, including expenditures for the two vessels, trenchers, and work ROVs, is projected to amount to approximately ¥79 billion. Offshore wind power is gaining attention as a critical renewable energy source in Japan. From fiscal year 2027 onwards, offshore wind projects in general sea areas are expected to become more prominent, driving demand for heavy-lift and cable-laying vessels.
(Text by Hirofumi Yamamoto)
Photo courtesy= Penta-Ocean Construction
■Growth of the Domestic Offshore Wind Market
Penta-Ocean Construction has already built Japan’s first SEP vessels (Self-Elevating Platform vessels) such as the “CP8001” and “CP-16001.” This new plan involves deploying some of the world’s most capable work vessels, addressing the challenges posed by larger turbines and heavier monopiles, while enhancing efficiency and safety during operations.
■Features of the New Vessels
The HLV under construction will be designed to handle turbines in the 15MW to 20MW class. Equipped with an all-rotating crane with a lifting capacity of up to 5,000 tons, the vessel will be capable of handling foundation construction with monopiles weighing approximately 3,000 tons. The CLV will be a cutting-edge vessel for laying power cables, accommodating next-generation projects such as floating offshore wind power and subsea HVDC transmission.
Both vessels will adopt environmentally conscious designs, including battery storage systems and methanol-ready configurations, contributing to sustainable energy development.
■Funding and Operational Structure
Of the ¥79 billion investment, ¥120 billion will be allocated to the HLV (¥60 billion from the company), ¥31 billion to the CLV (¥15.5 billion from the company), and ¥3.5 billion to trenchers and work ROVs. The funds will be raised through a combination of internal capital and loans, with government support being considered for part of the borrowing.
In terms of operational arrangements, Penta-Ocean plans to co-own the vessels with subsidiaries and leasing companies. The management of the CLV will be entrusted to Kojima Holdings Co., Ltd., while ownership and operation of trenchers and ROVs will be pursued jointly.
■A Step Towards Japan’s Renewable Energy Future
This investment marks a significant turning point for Japan’s offshore wind power market. With the increasing size of turbines and the growing need for installations in deeper waters, the introduction of state-of-the-art vessels is expected to enhance efficiency across the industry.
Furthermore, the construction of environmentally friendly, technologically advanced vessels is anticipated to bolster Japan’s competitive edge both domestically and internationally. Penta-Ocean Construction expressed its commitment to driving technological innovation in marine civil engineering in tandem with the expansion of renewable energy.
The HLV is scheduled for completion in 2025, followed by the CLV in 2028. Their eventual deployment will symbolize a major milestone in the growth of the renewable energy market.
〆五洋建設（PENTA-OCEAN CONSTRUCTION）、洋上風力発電向けに約790億円規模の設備投資を発表。
五洋建設は２０２４年１２月１０日、洋上発電事業に使う大型基礎施工船（HLV）と大型ケーブル敷設船（CLV）２隻を建造すると発表した。投資規模は２隻への出資とトレンチャー（埋設機）、ワークROV含め合計約790億円になる。洋上風力発電は、日本国内においても重要な再生可能エネルギー源として注目されている。特に2027年度以降、一般海域でのプロジェクトが本格化する見込みであり、大型基礎施工船やケーブル敷設船の需要が高まることが予想されている。
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