MOL signs deal for Japan's first offshore wind transport ship

MITSUI O.S.K. Lines (MOL) announced a major investment in Japan’s offshore wind sector. Its subsidiary, MOL Drybulk, signed a contract with JFE Engineering for the marine transport of wind turbine components.

Additionally, MOL secured a separate agreement with Taizhou Sanfu Ship Engineering to construct a new module carrier specifically designed for the purpose. The vessel will be the first in Japan to serve the growing demand for offshore wind farm development.

CG rendering of the first coastal module carrier. PHOTO FROM MOL

The vessel is scheduled for delivery in the spring of 2026 and will engage in the coastal transport of offshore wind turbine foundations from JFE Engineering’s manufacturing base in Kasaoka-shi, Okayama Prefecture, to offshore wind turbine construction sites in Japan.

In April, JFE Engineering began producing monopiles to build the foundation for offshore wind power generation. MOL Coastal Shipping, Ltd. will operate the vessel under the management of MOL Drybulk.

The new module carrier boasts cutting-edge technology based on proven European models. Equipped with a dynamic positioning system (DPS), it offers superior weather resistance compared to traditional barges. This allows direct cargo delivery to self-elevating platform (SEP) vessels at offshore wind farm construction sites, streamlining the process.

The flat deck design facilitates the direct loading of wind turbine components like monopiles, towers, blades and nacelles using multi-axle trucks. As Japan’s offshore wind industry flourishes, the demand for domestic transport of these components is expected to surge.

MOL Drybulk is well-positioned to meet this growing need. They already operate a similar module carrier for transporting wind turbine parts and other cargo across Asia. Leveraging their expertise, they’ll continue to provide comprehensive marine transport solutions to their customers.

By deploying this innovative vessel and drawing on its experience in offshore wind projects, the MOL Group is committed to supporting the development of a net-zero emissions society.