Nexans has announced an innovative partnership with Crowley Wind Services to develop and operate a Jones Act-compliant cable lay barge.
This collaboration is aimed at supporting the installation of subsea transmission lines essential for offshore wind energy, telecommunications, and other major industrial applications, reinforcing both companies’ commitment to expanding US energy sources and industrial sectors that require underwater cabling.
The vessel will play a pivotal role in laying and burying subsea cables to deliver energy from offshore wind farms to onshore grids. It is the first of its kind to feature vertical injectors, a dynamic positioning system, and a multiple-anchors positioning system, enabling precise and efficient cable placement even under challenging conditions.
The barge is set to support Equinor’s Empire Wind offshore wind farm in New York and can be adapted to lay or repair cables for a wide range of other subsea applications.
Pascal Radue, Executive Vice President of Nexans’ PWR-Transmission Business Group, commented that this barge will enhance the existing fleet of cable-laying vessels.
Graham Tyson, Vice President of Operations at Crowley Wind Services, added that the cable lay barge will offer a reliable supply chain solution for offshore energy, telecommunications, and other industries.
The vessel will be operated by a US crew, supporting both maritime investment and employment goals.
Seafarers International Union President David Heindel also expressed enthusiasm noting that with decades of experience aboard cable-laying vessels, their members will reinforce the value of the Jones Act in supporting US national, economic, and homeland security.
