IWS Fleet, a subsidiary of Integrated Wind Solutions (IWS), has signed €96m worth of shipbuilding contracts for two walk-to-work commissioning service operations vessels (CSOV).
The Skywalker class CSOVs will be constructed at China Merchants Industry in Hong Kong. These hybrid-powered vessels are expected to be delivered in the first half of 2024.
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Two identical vessels are already on order, with delivery anticipated in 2023.
Once delivered, IWS will own four identical Skywalker class vessels, which will be used in commissioning works during the construction of wind farms.
The vessels will also be used for operations and maintenance over the lifetime of both bottom fixed and floating offshore wind farms.
IWS Fleet also signed option contracts for up to two additional vessels, which would potentially be delivered in the second half of 2024.
IWS CEO Lars-Henrik Røren said: “We are very pleased to expand our fleet by another two vessels, which will be uniquely positioned for a strong and growing offshore wind market when delivered in 2024.
“We do see increased interest in our vessels and the integrated services that IWS provides, as demonstrated by the charter contracts with Dogger Bank Offshore Windfarm.”
Upon delivery, the first IWS Skywalker vessel will be used at the Dogger Bank Wind Farm in summer 2023 as part of a firm contract.
Dogger Bank Wind Farm is also planning to enter a third charter contract for one of IWS’ Skywalker class vessels, which would be expected to begin operations in 2025.
Designed by Kongsberg Maritime, the vessels will feature the latest generation fully compensated gangway and 3d crane.
Other features of the vessel will include a bigger battery pack with solar panels for additional charging, an advanced hull, and a propulsion design to enhance operability and cut down emissions.
