SBSS Targets Offshore Wind with Converted Cable Lay Barge

Chinese provider of submarine cable installation and maintenance solutions S.B. Submarine Systems (SBSS) has taken delivery of Fu Yong 6, a 5,500t power cable installation and maintenance barge.

On a long-term charter with Zhoushan Yongbo Shipping, Fu Yong 6 was delivered from Zhoushan Huafeng yard, where the ex-transportation barge was converted into a multi-purpose cable lay barge.

“Today is the start of a new chapter for SBSS as we embark on a 36-month program of work specifically in the Chinese windfarm market, installing and deep- burying cables in the East and South China Seas utilizing the barge, and equipment, you will see today,” SBSS Managing Director Simon Hibberd said during the delivery ceremony.

Fu Yong 6 is equipped with a 5,500t capacity cable carousel system with high capacity caterpillar track tensioners and a six-point mooring system.

The barge is designed with grounding capability. SBSS will target the shallow water high-voltage export cable installation market, where such services are currently in high demand at the Chinese offshore wind farms, the company said.

On 29 October, Fu Yong 6 completed a 12-day period of sea trials, which also included function and burial testing of the subsea cable trencher Water Dragon, manufactured and owned by CRRC SMD.