XLCC CLV Vessel Unveiled as Next-Generation Cable Layer
XLCC, a new U.K.-based business focused on renewable energy andย high-voltage direct current (HVDC)ย technologies, has completed the concept design of its advanced cable-laying vessel, theย XLCC CLV. This first-of-its-kind ship will be delivered in theย first half of 2025ย and set new benchmarks in subsea cable installation.
Theย XLCC CLV vesselย will play a key role in delivering fourย 3,800-kilometer subsea HVDC cablesย for theย MoroccoโU.K. Power Projectย โ a large-scale wind and solar energy initiative connecting North Africa and the U.K.
Advancing the Global HVDC Market
XLCC Directorย Alan Mathersย described the project as a major step forward in renewable infrastructure. โOur vessel will be the most sophisticated, capable, and green cable layer in the world,โ Mathers said. โWith this capability, we can meet growing global demand for HVDC cable deployment and bridge the existing market gap.โ
By leading this innovation, XLCC aims to support both large-scale green energy projects and the industryโs transition to sustainable offshore power transmission.
Collaboration and Design Development
Theย XLCC CLV vesselย is being developed in partnership withย Salt Ship Design, with support fromย MAATS Techย andย Global Marineย for cable-handling systems. The design uses advancedย 3D engineering softwareย to optimize steel structures, cable storage, and interior layouts.
XLCCโs engineers are currently finalizing the vesselโs basic design and planning construction with a selected shipyard to begin soon. This integrated design approach ensures efficiency, sustainability, and readiness for large-scale cable operations.
Engineering the Most Advanced CLV Ever Built
According to the company, theย XLCC CLV vesselย doubles the cable capacity of the largest ships currently in service. The design allows significantly more cable per voyage, which reduces transit times, operating costs, and fuel emissions.
Key performance highlights include:
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Loading and deployment speeds optimized to align with cable production schedules
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Dual below-deck cable carousels for increased operational efficiency
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Transit speed of approximatelyย 15 knots loadedย andย 16 knots returning to port
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Reduced harbor turnaround time through faster cable loading and optimized workflows
Sustainable Technology for Future Operations
Sustainability remains central to theย XLCC CLV vesselย design. The ship will operate withย low- or zero-emission fuels, includingย liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC)ย andย methanol, alongside marine gas oil (MGO) capability.
Its 110-meter hangar, larger than traditional CLVs, maximizes internal workspace. Additionally, the aft-positioned superstructure improves vessel balance, speed, and fuel efficiency, ensuring top performance during global HVDC cable missions.
Shaping the Future of Renewable Connectivity
With theย XLCC CLV vessel, XLCC positions itself at the forefront of clean energy infrastructure. This groundbreaking ship combines high capacity, lower emissions, and faster performance โ setting a new global standard for subsea cable operations.
To learn more about XLCCโs advanced HVDC solutions, visit theย official XLCC website.
