Chan Ye Xin Xi Wang·2025-08-29 01:28Core Viewpoint - The offshore wind operation and maintenance vessels are becoming increasingly vital in the offshore wind power industry, ensuring stable operations and playing an indispensable role in future energy layouts. The global demand for these specialized vessels is surging due to the rapid growth of offshore wind power installation capacity [1][6]. Group 1: Industry Overview - Offshore wind operation and maintenance vessels are specialized ships used for the operation and maintenance of offshore wind turbines, characterized by good motion performance in waves and the ability to safely transport personnel and equipment [2]. - The vessels are mainly categorized into two types: Service Operation Vessels (SOV) and Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOV). SOVs are designed for storing, lifting, and replacing large components of offshore wind turbines, while CSOVs are more flexible and used during the construction and commissioning phases [2][3]. Group 2: Industry Development History - The development of China's offshore wind operation and maintenance vessels can be divided into three stages: early exploration, professional upgrade, and rapid development. The first offshore wind project in China was completed in 2007, marking the beginning of offshore wind maintenance [4]. - By 2021, the industry entered a rapid development phase, with the first batch of SOVs delivered in 2023, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and safety for offshore projects [5]. Group 3: Industry Chain - The industry chain consists of upstream raw materials and equipment supply, midstream production and manufacturing of the vessels, and downstream application in the offshore wind sector. The demand for operation and maintenance vessels is increasing as offshore wind farms enter the maintenance phase [5]. Group 4: Current Market Situation - The global delivery of wind operation and maintenance vessels is projected to reach 58 units in 2024, an increase of 18 units from 2023. China's share of this market has surged from 10% in 2019 to 50% in 2024, indicating rapid growth in this sector [1][6]. Group 5: Competitive Landscape - European companies like Royal IHC and Cadeler dominate the high-end market due to their technological expertise, while Chinese shipbuilders like China Merchants Heavy Industry and Zhenhua Heavy Industries lead the mid-tier market with significant orders for offshore wind operation vessels [8]. - Companies such as Jianglong Shipbuilding and Yinghui Southern Shipbuilding are notable for their advanced designs and construction capabilities in the field of offshore wind operation vessels [9][11]. Group 6: Future Trends - The demand for wind operation and maintenance vessels is expected to continue growing, driven by the push for carbon neutrality and the expansion of offshore wind projects [13]. - The vessels are evolving towards greater specialization and larger sizes to meet the operational demands of deep-sea wind projects, with a focus on safety, adaptability, and economic efficiency [14]. - Future vessels will incorporate smart technologies and automation, enhancing operational efficiency and safety while reducing labor costs and operational risks [15].