China Merchants Heavy Industry Jiangsu has cut the first steel for a new crane vessel ordered by Jan De Nul Group.
Les Alizés will be used primarily for offshore wind farm construction projects but may also be deployed for decommissioning work on offshore oil and gas platforms. It will have a 5,000-tonne heavy lift crane and a 9,300-square-metre working deck capable of accommodating up to 61,000 tonnes.
The vessel's ability to float will allow it to install heavier and larger foundations into deeper waters and in more challenging seabed conditions.
Les Alizés will also be equipped with an exhaust gas filtering system and an energy storage system for use along with the main engines in providing power for the heavy lift crane. Both systems will enable the vessel to comply with Euro Stage V emissions guidelines.