DeepOcean and the controlling entity of TFKable Group are planning to establish a joint venture (JV) that will provide integrated engineering, procurement, construction and installation (EPCI) services for inter-array cable projects in offshore wind, as well as a newbuild, dedicated inter-array cable-laying vessel (CLV).
The planned JV will provide an integrated offering covering key stages of inter-array cable projects, including seabed mapping, route surveys, engineering, cable manufacturing and transportation, trenching, installation and cable protection.
The collaboration, set to combine TFKable Group’s subsea cable technology and manufacturing capabilities with DeepOcean’s expertise in offshore engineering, installation and seabed intervention, will initially focus on inter-array cable systems, with the option of supporting other subsea cable applications in the future.
“Offshore wind developers are increasingly looking for greater collaboration and integration across the supply chain. By combining complementary cable manufacturing and offshore installation capabilities, we intend to create a more efficient delivery model that reduces interfaces, strengthens risk management and supports greater project certainty,” said Øyvind Mikaelsen, CEO of DeepOcean.
The collaboration is planned as a multi-year development programme, with capabilities introduced progressively as it advances and key development milestones planned through 2029.
The planned CLV will be owned by a separate vessel-owning entity that consists of Poland’s state-owned industrial development agency Agencja Rozwoju Przemysłu (ARP), DeepOcean and the controlling entity of TFKable Group. Work is currently progressing towards the necessary milestones required for project sanction.
The integrated offering will also be supported by TFKable Group’s ongoing investments in subsea cable manufacturing capacity and technology in Poland and the UK.
The establishment and operation of the JV are subject to approval by relevant competition authorities and the completion of customary closing requirements.
“TFKable and JDR Cable Systems have developed strong expertise in inter-array cable solutions, supported by continued investment in technology, manufacturing capacity and product development. Together with DeepOcean’s offshore engineering and installation capabilities, we see an opportunity to offer customers a more integrated solution covering a broader part of the cable project lifecycle,” said Piotr Mirek, a Member of the Management Board of Tele-Fonika Kable and Executive Director for Supply Chains and Investments in JDR Cable Systems.
“By bringing these capabilities together, DeepOcean and TFKable Group aim to reduce interface risk, improve schedule certainty and support more efficient and predictable delivery of inter-array cable projects.”