• 3 min de lectura
• 3 min de lectura
AAL Shipping completed its first call at the Port of Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, establishing a new gateway for project cargo in the country, while delivering essential components for the HayWind Mannar wind farm.
This operation represents the latest expansion of AAL's global project cargo network and demonstrates the company's capability to support complex heavy-lift movements into emerging markets and developing infrastructure hubs.
The cargo transportation was carried out thanks to the collaboration between AAL Middle East and the shipping company's main representative in India. In two voyages, the company transported 64,000 freight tons (FRT) of wind farm components from China to Sri Lanka using its 19,000 DWT S-class vessels, the AAL Bangkok and the AAL Nanjing.
The shipment included components for 10 complete 100-meter-tall wind turbines, including towers, blades, nacelles, hubs, and associated equipment necessary for the 50 MW HayWind Mannar wind farm project.
The park represents the largest private investment in wind energy made to date in Sri Lanka. The cargo transport solution provided by AAL enabled the delivery of the turbines, facilitating the grid connection planned for March 2027. Once operational, the facility is expected to generate energy and reduce carbon emissions by approximately 186,000 metric tons annually.
Despite challenging monsoon conditions during its inaugural call in Trincomalee, AAL successfully completed two complex discharge operations, demonstrating its ability to safely and efficiently deliver project cargo to ports not traditionally associated with large-scale renewable energy developments.
"Our first call in Trincomalee demonstrates AAL's ability to deliver project cargo directly to emerging destinations beyond our traditional trade routes," said Karim Smaili, General Manager for the Middle East at AAL Shipping.
"As supply chains evolve, customers are increasingly seeking direct access to regional locations, and this project highlights our ability to meet those needs safely and efficiently. We are particularly proud that this shipment contributes to Sri Lanka's renewable energy ambitions and long-term infrastructure development," added Smaili.
Sri Lanka is committed to generating 70% of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Meeting these goals will require significant investment in new wind and solar infrastructure, generating a growing demand for specialized project cargo transport services and heavy-lift logistics.
"Whether serving established project hubs or opening new cargo ports, our focus remains on providing reliable and efficient maritime transport solutions for complex cargo. The successful operation in Trincomalee highlights the versatility of our fleet, the expertise of our EPC-level engineering and operations teams, and our ability to support our clients' projects in both consolidated and emerging markets," stated Vinay Agarwal, Commercial Representative for AAL Shipping in India.
