Vard has entered into a contract with Wind Energy Construction for the design and construction of an energy construction vessel (ECV). The vessel, a VARD 3 11 model, is specifically designed for the offshore wind and subsea market, catering to inspection, maintenance, and repair of pipes, as well as the construction and installation of infrastructure both above and below sea level.
The vessel is engineered for optimal station-keeping, maneuverability, and sea-keeping, allowing for flexible configuration to suit various operations, Vard reported. Notably, this will be the first construction vessel built by Vard with a permanently installed motion-compensated gangway.
The vessel will feature a walk-to-work Electric Controlled Motion Compensated (ECMC) gangway with integrated 3D compensated crane functionality. Additionally, a 150-tonne movement-compensated offshore crane will be installed to enhance capacities, particularly for the expanding renewables market.
The contract also includes an option for an additional vessel, which may be exercised later this year.
Wind Energy Construction, a Norwegian company, is partly owned by the founders and owners of Norwind Offshore. This marks the sixth vessel contracted with Vard by the owners of Norwind Offshore since October 2021, with the previous five being CSOVs.
