WATCH: ‘World’s most eco-friendly’ subsea and offshore wind vessel takes first construction steps

October 21, 2024, by Melisa Čavčić

Norwegian offshore vessel owner Eidesvik Offshore and its partner, Agalas, have begun to build a methanol-powered hybrid construction support vessel (CSV) for offshore wind and subsea operations.

Steel cutting ceremony for new CSV occurred at Sefine Shipyard in Türkiye; Source: Agalas

Eidesvik Offshore and Agalas disclosed a deal to build a new construction support vessel in February 2024 and secured options for four additional ships. This collaboration is said to have the potential to generate numerous new jobs for the green offshore industry in Northern Norway.

Thanks to a deal Agalas partners secured a couple of years ago, the contracts and options at Sefine Shipyard in Türkiye are perceived to be very favorable, as the market and demand for subsea vessels soar, making these options even more attractive.

The new CSV, described as the world’s first within its operational areas to be delivered with a hybrid battery system and dual-fuel engines – capable of running on methanol and diesel – is anticipated to have a 70% lower emissions footprint than equivalent vessels. The construction of this ship is now underway at Sefine Shipyard.

The vessel delivery is anticipated in early 2026 when it will enter into a contract ranging from three to five years with Reach Subsea, a publicly listed offshore services company. The ship will be owned by Eidsvik Agalas, in which Eidesvik holds a majority stake of 50.1% and Agalas the remaining shares.

Designed by NSK Ship Design in Harstad, the new CSV will have a length of 99.9 meters and a width of 21 meters, with a design featuring a 150-ton wave-compensating crane and 900 square meters of deck space.

According to Eidesvik, the steel cutting ceremony for the new construction support vessel took place at Sefine Shipyard last week, marking the first major step in bringing the anticipated next-generation ship to life.

The Norwegian offshore vessel owner highlighted: “This state-of-the-art CSV will be equipped to perform inspection, maintenance and repair work for the subsea and offshore wind industries.

“Equipped with dual fuel methanol engines and a battery hybrid system, she will be the world’s most eco-friendly vessel within her operating segments. Together with our partner Agalas, we look forward to seeing this groundbreaking project unfold!”