The first Jones Act plug-in hybrid offshore wind service operation vessel (SOV) in the US has been christened and launched in a ceremony at the Port of New Orleans.
The ABS-classed ECO Liberty was constructed by Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO) at its LaShip shipyard in Houma, Louisiana, and will be owned and operated by ECO for international energy company Equinor. The 79.8m vessel saw more than 500 local workers contribute to the vessel’s construction, using American steel and components from across the region.
Miguel Hernandez, ABS SVP Global Offshore, said: “The ECO Liberty is a milestone for both US shipbuilding and the use of hybrid systems in offshore wind vessels. ABS is proud to support these growing sectors, helping clients navigate emerging technologies and evolving shipbuilding needs. ABS is committed to being a trusted partner for the growing offshore energy vessel fleet in the US.”
As a provider of classification services for the global offshore industry, ABS says it is in a unique position to support the variety of vessels serving the fixed and floating offshore wind market, from wind turbine installation vessels, rock installation, service operation vessels, cable laying vessels and crew transfer vessels to floating heavy lift construction vessels.
Image: ‘ECO Liberty’ launch celebration in New Orleans (credit: Edison Chouest Offshore)
