Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in India has held a keel-laying ceremony for a hybrid electric Service Operation Vessel (SOV) for North Star Shipping (Aberdeen), ordered to serve the growing offshore renewable energy segment.
The 85m battery-electric hybrid SOV, second of two SOVs being constructed by CSL for North Star, is designed in collaboration with Vard of Norway, to the VARD 4 19 design.
The vessel is built to DNV class, and is equipped with a hybrid electric system powered by lithium-ion batteries and DC based power system, with electrically-driven azimuth propulsion for enhanced manoeuvrability. Purpose-built to meet the demands of offshore wind farms, the vessel will serve as a multifunctional platform, combining accommodation, logistics, and maintenance capabilities.
The vessel’s key features include:
Battery Hybrid Power management system
- DP2 Class Dynamic positioning system.
- Capacity for 80 personnel, including specialised technicians and crew, complying with DNV C2-V2 comfort requirements.
- Dedicated facilities for wind turbine maintenance, ensuring efficient and safe operations.
- Integrated warehouse and logistics centre, streamlining the supply chain and reducing downtime.
- Advanced walk-to-work systems, enabling safe and reliable personnel transfers to offshore installations.
The long-term partnership between CSL and North Star Shipping is thought to reflect a shared vision for innovation and excellence in the offshore renewable vessels market.
Image: Keel laying ceremony for North Star hybrid SOV (Cochin Shipyard Limited)
