The first of two methanol dual-fuel service operation vessels (SOVs) ordered ESVAGT has been launched at the Turkish shipyard of Cemre.
The vessel is powered by dual-fuel engines that can sail on ‘e-methanol’, which is produced from renewable energy and biogenic carbon.
NB1094 was launched on June 1 and will work at the Hornsea offshore wind farm in the North Sea, where she will accommodate 124 personnel.
Havyard Ship Design drew up the plans for the 93m vessel, which is fitted with both battery and dual-fuel technology.
The second vessel, NB1097, will have the same specifications as the first one and is due to be launched in 2026.
Both vessels have been contracted to work once delivered, the first for 10 years for Ørsted and the second for Vestas for 15 years.
Last month ESVAGT released its annual report, in which it reported considerable revenue not only in offshore wind but also hugely in oil and gas.
“Akin to the wind segment, 2023 also offered growth to the oil and gas segment,” said ESVAGT in its annual report. “An increased focus in Europe on energy security and independence of oil and gas from Russia led to increased production and drilling activities in the North Sea, resulting in increased demand for ESVAGT’s ERRV (Emergency Response and Rescue Vessel) services and a high utilization of the fleet.”
The two SOVs bring the number of SOVs in ESVAGT’s fleet to 13, which the company says is evidence of its strengthening position in the sector.
