Seting out to revolutionize offshore wind installations in the United States, Maersk Supply Service has announced a strategic partnership with Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO). The collaboration aims to construct and operate a specialized windfarm feeder concept tailored for Maersk Supply Service’s cutting-edge Wind Installation Vessel, marking a significant advancement in offshore wind technology.
The innovative technology behind Maersk Supply Service’s new installation concept promises to facilitate the swift transfer of turbine components at sea, with anticipated efficiency gains of up to 30%. By teaming up with ECO, a renowned player in the maritime industry, Maersk Supply Service aims to introduce this groundbreaking technology to the burgeoning U.S. offshore wind market, thereby expediting the pace of offshore wind installations across the country.
Christian M. Ingerslev, CEO of Maersk Supply Service, highlighted the potential impact of this partnership, stating, “Maersk Supply Service’s new installation concept can make offshore wind farm installations significantly faster… enabling faster offshore wind installations in the U.S.”
The bespoke feeder spread, set to be delivered in 2026, will comprise two tugs and two barges owned and operated by ECO. These vessels, constructed by Bollinger Shipyards, a prominent shipyard group in the United States, will serve as crucial components in the offshore installation process.
Essential to the efficiency of the installation process is the seamless coordination between the wind installation vessel (WIV) and the feeder spread. While the feeder spread transports turbine components or foundations to the installation site, the WIV remains stationed, ensuring successive installations can be completed promptly, thereby accelerating the commissioning of offshore wind parks.
Dino Chouest, Executive Vice President of ECO, underscored the significance of the partnership, stating, “This partnership facilitates expansion of our existing footprint in the U.S. offshore wind industry…”
One of the key advantages of this specialized solution is its ability to enhance logistical access to a broader range of U.S. ports. By utilizing U.S.-built, -owned, and -flagged tugs and barges, the partnership aims to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions on installation schedules. Maersk Supply Service’s innovative locking and stabilizing mechanism between the WIV and barge further enhances operational resilience, ultimately reducing the number of operating days required to install a wind park.
As the demand for renewable energy continues to surge, partnerships like the one between Maersk Supply Service and ECO signal a pivotal moment in the evolution of offshore wind technology. With their combined expertise and commitment to innovation, these industry leaders are poised to accelerate the adoption of offshore wind energy in the United States and beyond.
