Mitsui O.S.K. Lines’ group company, MOL Drybulk Ltd., has signed a basic contract for marine transport with JFE Engineering Corporation. Concurrently, MOL and Taizhou Sanfu Ship Engineering Co., Ltd. have concluded a contract for the construction of a new module carrier to be launched under this agreement. This will mark the introduction of the first coastal module carrier in Japan dedicated to transporting components for offshore wind turbine foundations.

The vessel is scheduled for delivery in the spring of 2026. Upon delivery, it 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 across Japan. JFE Engineering commenced production of monopiles, essential for offshore wind power generation foundations, in April. MOL Coastal Shipping, Ltd. will operate the vessel under the management of MOL Drybulk.

The new ship boasts a state-of-the-art design, already proven effective in the European market. It will be equipped with a dynamic positioning system and offer superior weather resistance compared to non-self-propelled barges, facilitating direct delivery of cargo to self-elevating platform vessels at offshore wind power construction sites.

The module carrier features a flat deck to directly load wind turbine components, such as monopiles, towers, blades, nacelles, and floating foundations, from the stern and sides using multi-axle trucks and other equipment. As Japan’s offshore wind power generation advances, domestic transport demand for wind turbine components is expected to rise across various scenarios. MOL Drybulk currently operates a 3,700-ton class module carrier on a time charter basis to transport both onshore and offshore wind turbine components, plant cargo, and marine equipment in Asian waters. Leveraging its expertise in operating this module carrier, MOL Drybulk aims to continue meeting customers’ marine transport needs.

The MOL Group is committed to striving for the realisation of a net-zero emissions society, in alignment with the MOL Group Environmental Vision 2.2. By leveraging its accumulated experience and expertise in offshore wind power generation-related businesses, MOL aims to contribute significantly to this goal.

This strategic collaboration between MOL, JFE Engineering, and Taizhou Sanfu Ship Engineering underscores a significant milestone in Japan’s efforts to enhance its offshore wind power infrastructure. The introduction of the new module carrier will play a pivotal role in supporting the country’s transition to renewable energy sources and achieving its environmental sustainability targets.

For more information visit www.mol.co.jp