DeepOcean, TFKable Group to develop inter-array cable offering

DeepOcean and TFKable Group, which includes Tele-Fonika Kable, JDR Cable Systems and their affiliated and associated entities, will build a dedicated inter-array cable laying vessel as part of the joint venture’s offering.

The planned collaboration will combine TFKable Group’s subsea cable technology and manufacturing capabilities with DeepOcean’s expertise in offshore engineering, installation and seabed intervention.

Drawing on the complementary strengths of both partners, the joint venture 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. It will initially focus on inter-array cable systems, while also having the potential to support other subsea cable applications in the future.

DeepOcean chief executive Øyvind Mikaelsen said, “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.”

The joint venture intends to introduce new capabilities progressively as part of a multi-year development programme.  As part of this programme, the partners are progressing plans for the construction and operation of a dedicated, purpose-built cable-laying vessel to support the delivery of inter-array cable projects.

The plan is that the cable-laying vessel will be owned by a separate vessel owning entity that includes Poland’s state-owned industrial development agency, Agencja Rozwoju Przemysłu, 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, together with DeepOcean’s specialist engineering expertise and offshore project execution capabilities.

The establishment and operation of the joint venture remains subject to approval by the relevant competition authorities and the completion of customary closing requirements, with both companies continuing to support their current and future customers with installation services or product supply, on a project-by-project basis.