Windcat has placed an additional order for two commissioning service operation vessels (CSOVs) with Damen Shipyards.
CMB.TECH’s dual-fuel hydrogen technology will be implemented to minimize the CO₂ footprint of offshore energy production and vessel operations. The first three vessels are currently under construction in Vietnam and will be delivered in 2025. The delivery of the two additional CSOVs is expected in 2026.
This order increases Windcat’s CSOV fleet to a total of five vessels, with the option of acquiring a sixth vessel. It follows the announcement in November 2022 regarding the construction of a series of hydrogen-powered CSOVs, the ‘Elevation Series’.
The Elevation Series CSOVs, a collaboration between Windcat and Damen Shipyards, feature a design that improves capabilities and flexibility compared to traditional vessels. The CSOVs are 87m long and 20m wide and can accommodate up to 120 people. The vessels are equipped with a gangway, crane, thrusters, hybrid battery technology and offshore charging capability.
Willem van der Wel, managing director of Windcat, said, “The decision to expand the CSOV fleet aligns with Windcat’s commitment to meeting the increasing demand for these vessels worldwide, and will give us further capacity and flexibility to support clients in the offshore industry.”
Joost van der Weiden, sales manager of Damen Shipyards, said, “One year ago we embarked on an exciting project to build a large series of CSOVs for Windcat. Now, one year later we are delighted to have five CSOVs under construction. This fact endorses the commitment and long-term focus from our client, but it also underlines the strong relations which we have and very much appreciate.”
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