VARD has made waves in the renewable energy sector with a significant milestone. The Norwegian shipbuilder has secured an Approval in Principle (AiP) from Lloyd’s Register for the methanol fueling system on two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) under construction for North Star. These vessels, set to become pioneers in green fuel readiness, underline the growing push toward sustainability in offshore wind operations.
The AiP isn’t just another technical endorsement; it’s a stamp of confidence in VARD’s innovative approach to hybrid propulsion. These VARD 4 22-designed CSOVs are custom-built for North Star, the UK’s leading infrastructure support vessel operator. Their design incorporates methanol-ready propulsion systems, marking a crucial step toward integrating alternative fuels into the offshore wind market.
The collaboration between VARD, North Star, and Lloyd’s Register began with the contract signing in May 2023. Since then, the parties have engaged in rigorous risk assessments and meticulous design refinements. The vessels’ layouts underwent two levels of risk analysis to ensure they could safely and efficiently transition to methanol as fuel when the necessary conversion kits become available from engine manufacturers.
What sets the VARD 4 22 apart is its future-proofing. While the vessels will initially operate on conventional fuels, their advanced preparation allows for a seamless conversion to methanol. This adaptability aligns perfectly with the offshore wind sector’s growing demand for sustainable operations. By prioritizing green fuel readiness, these CSOVs position themselves at the forefront of environmental responsibility in maritime logistics.
Being among the first vessels of their kind prepared for methanol use, these CSOVs highlight a significant shift in maritime engineering and design. As global industries increasingly prioritize reducing carbon emissions, VARD’s approach could serve as a model for integrating sustainability into vessel construction.
