Bibby selects new builders for eCSOV

The eCSOV will have a battery system complemented by dual-fuel methanol engines, says Bibby, and will be able to operate on solely battery power for a typical full day of operations ‘for passage from field to port and return’.

“Integrating digitalisation and AI into the vessel’s design is key to maintaining and improving its efficiency over its life,” Bibby says.

Bibby Marine, said a spokesperson, chose Armon, which is based in Asturias, ‘for its outstanding offer in terms of timeline and quality’. 

“The complexity of the eCSOV underscores its importance, not only as a technological challenge but as a statement of commitment to a cleaner and greener future,” said Armon CEO Laudelino Alperi.

“While ambitious, we feel confident that our vast experience, coupled with our advanced facilities and skilled team, will enable us to deliver a vessel that sets new benchmarks for efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in the offshore wind industry.”

The partnership between Bibby Marine and Armon is a new one, on the back of an amicable split with the original builder, Gondan, also in Asturias.

“We are thrilled to be working alongside our new partners Armon and move to the next stage of our project,” said Bibby CEO Nigel Quinn. “The delivery of this vessel will bring our clean vision to life, confident it will mean significant advancements to our industry.”