New Nexans cable-layer to sport ABB’s hybrid power system

Norwegian shipyard Ulstein Verft has placed an order with ABB for the delivery of an integrated power and propulsion system for Nexans’ new cable-laying vessel (CLV), currently under construction.

The CLV, specially designed by Skipsteknisk, will be able to carry out the transport and lay of various types of subsea cables, including cable bundles, as well as recovery and repair, and will be capable of laying up to four cables simultaneously.

ABB’s scope of supply includes main system components such as the generator, switchboards, transformers, frequency converters, motors, DC switchboard for batteries, and energy storage system (ESS), as well as the remote diagnostic system (RDS) for propulsion, thruster inverters, and rectifiers as well as cyber security configuration for the RDS.

According to ABB, by providing precise and timely fault detection and continuously monitoring equipment health status, the RDS improves system performance and minimizes the need for on-site service which results in significant savings in downtime and maintenance costs.

The onboard ESS is also expected to reduce engine running hours to keep engine wear and tear to a minimum and will provide spinning reserve and peak-shaving capabilities, acting as a back-up power source in case of engine failure and supporting the vessel’s more energy-intensive operations.

On delivery in 2026, the new vessel will join Nexans Skagerrak and sister ship Nexans Aurora, also equipped with ABB technology, as the third and most advanced CLV in the Nexans fleet.

“Following the success of Nexans Aurora, ABB is proud to be involved in this project to deliver the new sister ship,” said Rune Braastad, Global Business Line Manager, Marine Systems, ABB Marine & Ports. “Nexans appreciates the benefits that our closed-ring system, ESS, and RDS provide to support safe, efficient, and reliable cable-laying operations. We look forward to strengthening our relationship with both Nexans and Ulstein Verft.”

Nexans and Ulstein Verft celebrated the start of the construction of the new CLV on January 19, four months after signing the shipbuilding contract.

Palfinger has been hired to provide a comprehensive equipment package for the vessel, Italian company Remacut, part of NOV, will deliver the cable-lay equipment, while Red Rock will provide an upgraded crane package.