Wedoany.com Report-Jul. 19, Prysmian’s new cable-laying vessel (CLV), Monna Lisa, has started installing submarine cables at the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind (CVOW) project, the largest offshore wind farm in the United States, developed by Dominion Energy. The vessel began its work earlier this year at the project site off the Virginia coast.

In 2021, Dominion Energy selected a consortium of DEME Group and Prysmian as the Balance of Plant contractors. Their responsibilities include transporting and installing foundations and substations, as well as providing engineering, procurement, construction, and installation services for the inter-array and export cables. DEME initiated export cable installation in September 2024 and completed the first of three offshore substations in March 2025.

Monna Lisa, a 171-meter vessel, joined Prysmian’s fleet in February and was loaded with submarine cables for CVOW at Prysmian’s Arco Felice plant in Italy in April. Built by Vard in Tulcea, Romania, with final outfitting and trials at Vard’s shipyard in Søvik, Norway, the vessel is designed for advanced cable-laying operations.

A Prysmian spokesperson stated: “The deployment of Monna Lisa at the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project marks a significant step in delivering reliable renewable energy infrastructure.” The project underscores Prysmian’s expertise in submarine cable systems and its commitment to supporting sustainable energy initiatives.

The 2.6 GW CVOW project features 176 Siemens Gamesa 14 MW turbines, capable of generating enough clean energy to power approximately 660,000 homes. In February 2025, Dominion Energy reported that the wind farm was about 50% complete, remaining on schedule for full completion by the end of 2026.

The collaboration between Dominion Energy, DEME, and Prysmian highlights the integration of specialized expertise to advance renewable energy infrastructure. Monna Lisa’s role in installing critical cables ensures efficient energy transmission from the offshore turbines to the grid, supporting the project’s goal of delivering substantial clean energy to Virginia.

The CVOW project contributes to the region’s renewable energy goals by providing a reliable, sustainable power source. The use of advanced vessels like Monna Lisa and high-capacity turbines reflects the industry’s focus on scaling up offshore wind to meet growing energy demands. As construction progresses, the project is poised to enhance energy reliability and support environmental sustainability in the United States.