China Launches Fully Electric 56,000-Ton Ship 0 11

In the Chinese city of Yantai (Shandong Province, East China), the vessel Norse Wind was delivered — the world's first vessel for installing wind turbines, fully powered by a direct current electrical system and with a carrying capacity of over 3,000 tons.

The creation and commissioning of Norse Wind have filled a global technological niche in the area of vessels with fully direct current systems for the installation of ultra-large wind turbines. The successful implementation of the project indicates that China has mastered key technologies in the production of such equipment, giving the country a significant advantage in the global marine wind energy market.

The vessel is 146 meters long, has a displacement of 56,000 tons, is equipped with a main crane with a lifting capacity of 3,200 tons, and features a DP2 class dynamic positioning system that ensures stability even in storms of up to eight on the Beaufort scale, heavy swells, and temperatures down to -15 °C in North Sea conditions. It is capable of transporting and utilizing wind turbines with a capacity of 15–20 megawatts.

Compared to traditional vessels equipped with alternating current systems, direct current makes Norse Wind lighter, allows for the transport of heavier structures, and simultaneously reduces carbon emissions.

While alternating current systems require constant operation of diesel generators, in the case of Norse Wind, the generators charge battery packs, which then power all onboard systems. When the charge decreases, the generators start periodically to recharge the batteries, significantly reducing fuel consumption.