(Based on Rystad Energy, Wood Mackenzie 2025 offshore wind installation forecasts)

The offshore wind industry is entering its busiest installation period in history, with more than 20 GW of offshore turbines scheduled for installation in 2025, according to Rystad Energy. This rapid expansion is creating significant demand for heavy-lift installation vessels (WTIVs) capable of handling the latest 15–20 MW turbine models.

Installation vessels rely extensively on large-diameter slewing bearings, slew drives and high-capacity rotary systems for their main cranes, jacking mechanisms, and auxiliary lifting equipment. Many of the next-generation WTIVs under construction in South Korea, China, and Europe are being equipped with cranes capable of lifting 2,000 to 3,500 tons, requiring increasingly large and durable rotational components.

A global bottleneck in heavy-lift vessel availability has emerged. Wood Mackenzie reports that existing WTIVs are nearly fully booked through 2027, prompting shipyards to accelerate newbuild projects in 2025. As turbine hub heights exceed 150 meters, the rotational accuracy and stability of crane slewing systems are becoming a central engineering focus.

This surge in offshore wind development highlights the essential role of high-load slewing systems in enabling renewable energy infrastructure. Demand for advanced rotary components is expected to remain strong as installation volumes continue rising.