New Maersk spin-off to support offshore wind

Maersk Offshore Wind promises to cut installation time by around 30% through the use of its state-of-the-art offshore wind installation vessel (WIV) which is designed to be permanently stationed at the wind farm.

“We need new solutions to meet the ambitious goals for offshore wind capacity in Europe and the US,” said Martin Larsen, chair of Maersk Offshore Wind and chief finance officer at owner, A.P. Moller Holding.

“Maersk Offshore Wind’s concept can reduce the installation time of offshore wind turbines by almost one third, delivering energy to the grid faster and lowering total installation costs, increasing the competitiveness of our customers when they bid for new projects.”

The WIV stays on site, conducting successive installations, supplied by purpose-built tugs and barges which shuttle back and forth from the load-out ports. Both the WIV and feeder vessels are equipped with new locking and stabilising technology, reducing the number of days needed to install the wind farm.

The first WIV is currently under construction at Seatrium in Singapore and is expected to be in service in mid-2025, installing Equinor’s Empire Offshore Wind off the US east coast.

Headed up by chief executive, Michael Reimer Mortensen, Maersk Offshore Wind is a spin-off from Maersk Supply Service which is being acquired by DOF Group.

The acquisition will enhance DOF’s position as a major integrated offshore services provider, says the company.

“With the world’s largest fleet of CSVs and high-end AHTS vessels we ill enhance the customer experience through increased scale, global reach and industry-leading services, combining the strong capabilities and decades of experience of DOF and Maersk Supply Service,” said Mons Aase, chief executive of DOF.

DOF expects the deal to be finalised during Q4 2024.