ClassNK has issued an Approval in Principle for the designs of a cable jointing vessel and a cable burial vessel developed by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. The approval confirms the feasibility of the vessel concepts from regulatory and safety perspectives.
The designs are intended to support long-distance subsea direct current power transmission, which is seen as an important option for connecting offshore wind projects in Japan to major electricity demand centres. Many suitable offshore wind sites are located far from consumption areas, making the development and reinforcement of transmission infrastructure a key challenge.
ClassNK conducted a design review in accordance with part O of its Rules and Guidance for the Survey and Construction of Steel Ships, along with other applicable requirements. The Approval in Principle was issued after the designs were confirmed to meet the prescribed standards.
An Approval in Principle is typically granted at an early design stage, before a specific vessel is selected for construction. It demonstrates conformity with relevant regulations and classification rules, helps reduce the risk of later design changes, and can support subsequent class registration and project development.
