Ørsted’s next huge service operation vessel heading into Grimsby will be fuelled by green energy.
The offshore wind developer has partnered with provider Esvagt in what is described as a pioneering agreement, to invest in a multi-million pound boat that can be powered by battery and dual fuel engines - with renewable e-methanol the choice.
Produced from wind energy and crops , the fuel will allow it to save 4,500 tonnes of CO2 compared to vessels it will moor next to in Royal Dock, and will be put to work on Hornsea Two in 2025.
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The farm is in the final throes of construction, and will take the world-leading title when complete.
Mark Porter, head of offshore operations at Ørsted, said: “As the world leader in offshore wind, it’s natural for Ørsted to take the lead in driving out fossil fuels from the industry. We’ve set clear targets and a clear direction towards net-zero emissions, and this new methanol-powered SOV is a tangible proof of our clear commitment to realise these targets. The agreement with Esvagt checks many boxes for us, as it both helps decarbonise our offshore operations while also demonstrating our strong belief that green fuels based on renewable energy is the most viable solution to create a green maritime sector.”
The Danish multinationals describe the maritime sector as urgently needing new green fuels, which today come at a higher cost than the fossil-based alternatives.
By ordering the new SOV, Ørsted and Esvagt say they are showing their commitment to a green maritime sector and helping create the demand to accelerate cost reductions.
Already boasting 99 per cent lower emissions than a coal-fired power station over a lifetime, the announcement is described as a ”step on the way towards mitigating the remaining emissions,” while furthering Ørsted’s target of becoming carbon-neutral in its energy generation and own operations by 2025.
Esvagt will start building the vessel imminently.
Søren Karas, chief strategy and commercial officer at Esvagt, said: “This is an important milestone with real meaningful impact on the green transition. Ørsted and Esvagt share an ambition for a sustainable future, and as an industry leader we’re committed to taking the lead in decarbonising the maritime industry. We’re delighted and proud to be able to take this bold step together with Ørsted towards making offshore wind marine solutions fossil free with an innovative new solution.”
Service operational vessels provide floating hotels and workshops for technicians who spend a fortnight at a time on board now wind farms are built further offshore.
Early ventures just off the coast saw small craft sail out daily from Grimsby, while the later rounds have seen a huge scale up, providing a range of work and leisure advances.
Charging capability in wind farm zones and ports are also being explored to maximise credentials, with the as yet unnamed vessel to join the distinctive Edda Passat and Edda Mistral on the regular sailings from under the Dock Tower, where the £14 million East Coast Hub operations base sits.
