AAL Shipping (AAL) has completed its first-ever port call in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, establishing a new project cargo gateway into the country while delivering critical wind energy components for the HayWind Mannar Wind Farm project.
The operation marks the latest expansion of AAL’s global project cargo network and demonstrates the carrier’s ability to support complex heavy lift movements into emerging markets and developing infrastructure hubs.
The cargo movement was secured through a collaboration between AAL Middle East and the carrier’s Chief Representative in India. Across two sailings, AAL transported 64,000 freight tonnes (FRT) of wind farm components from China to Sri Lanka using its 19,000-dwt S-Class vessels, AAL Bangkok and AAL Nanjing.The shipment comprised components for ten complete 100-metre-high wind turbines, including towers, blades, nacelles, hubs and associated equipment required for the 50MW HayWind Mannar Wind Farm project.
The HayWind Mannar Wind Farm represents Sri Lanka’s largest private investment in wind power to date. The project cargo solution provided by AAL enabled the delivery of all ten 5MW turbines by July 2026, supporting the project’s planned grid connection in March 2027. Once operational, the facility is expected to generate power while reducing carbon emissions by approximately 186,000 metric tonnes annually.
Despite challenging monsoon conditions during its inaugural call to Trincomalee, AAL successfully completed two complex discharge operations, demonstrating its ability to safely and efficiently deliver project cargoes into ports not traditionally associated with large-scale renewable energy developments.“Our maiden call to Trincomalee demonstrates AAL’s ability to deliver project cargoes directly to emerging destinations beyond our traditional trade routes,” said Karim Smaili, General Manager Middle East, AAL Shipping.
“As supply chains evolve, customers are increasingly seeking direct access to regional locations, and this project highlights our capability to support those requirements safely and efficiently. We are particularly proud that this shipment supports Sri Lanka’s renewable energy ambitions and long-term infrastructure development.” Karim Smaili, General Manager Middle East, AAL Shipping
Sri Lanka has committed to generating 70 percent of its electricity from renewable energy sources by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Meeting these objectives will require significant investment in new wind and solar infrastructure, creating growing demand for specialised project cargo transportation and heavy lift logistics services.
“Whether serving established project hubs or opening new cargo gateways, our focus remains on delivering reliable and efficient shipping solutions for complex cargoes,” added Vinay Agarwal, Commercial Representative India, AAL Shipping.
“The successful Trincomalee operation highlights the versatility of our fleet, the expertise of our EPC-grade engineering and operations teams, and our ability to support customer projects in both established and emerging markets.”As investment in renewable energy and industrial infrastructure continues to accelerate across Asia, AAL remains committed to expanding access to new project locations and emerging markets, helping customers move critical cargoes safely and efficiently to destinations that may otherwise be difficult to serve through conventional shipping networks. Vinay Agarwal,Commercial Representative India, AAL Shipping.
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