Taiwan’s CSBC Corp has launched the CSBC No. 15, the first locally-built barge for offshore wind.
On its maiden voyage, the barge carried 15 large construction sections from Keelung to Kaohsiung.
The barge, which meets international sailing requirements, was fully brought forward by CSBC, from the vessel design and investment to construction itself.
CBSC says the barge is suitable for operations offshore Taiwan all year round, and is equipped with ballasting system to meet the requirement of Kaohsiung, Keelung, Taichung and Taipei ports.
The 140-metre vessel is 41 metres wide and has a load capacity of up to 23,000 tonnes, with a large deck space capable of loading extra large and heavy cargo which can be loaded by stern in, side in, and lift.
The barge can carry a complete offshore substation in one run, with a 3,500-tonne foundation and a 3,400-tonne topside, and four 300-tonne pin piles on board.
When it comes to jacket foundations, the barge is capable of transporting three 30mx30m jackets, each weighing up to 1,200 tonnes and with a height of up to 80 meters.