Two new Construction Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) contracted at Ulstein Verft will be equipped with a hybrid battery propulsion system and be prepared for green methanol fuel to enable carbon-neutral operations.
In 2023, Bernhard Schulte Offshore ordered the design and construction of two hybrid CSOVs from Ulstein, a contract which included options for two plus two vessels. These options have been transferred to institutional investors advised by J.P. Morgan Asset Management, who have now declared the first two. The contracts include two additional options.
Andrian Dacy, Global Head of J.P. Morgan Asset Management Global Transportation Group, said: “We are excited to add to our existing presence in the offshore wind maintenance sector. These latest technology CSOVs will play a critical role in the development and delivery of renewable energy and global energy decarbonisation.”
Ulstein Group CEO Gunvor Ulstein added: “The offshore wind industry is an important enabler to achieve the climate goals, and we believe that our fuel-efficient ships will be vital assets in this mission.”
The ships have a large, centrally positioned walk-to-work motion-compensated gangway and elevator tower for personnel and cargo transfers. Furthermore, a 3D compensated crane capable of 5t offshore cargo lifts is installed. The optimised on-board logistics includes large storage capacities and stepless approach to the offshore installations. The vessels have a length of 89.6m and a beam of 19.2m. The Ulstein SX222 design platform is adapted to the shipowner’s needs, including single cabins for 110 persons. In total, the vessels will be able to accommodate 132 people.
The ships will feature hybrid battery propulsion and be prepared for green methanol fuel to enable carbon-neutral operations. They are considered to offer flexibility enabling work within areas such as O&M (Operation and Maintenance) or construction support, especially in challenging weather and sea conditions.
