Louis Dreyfus Armateurs (LDA) has been awarded long-term contracts by Vattenfall to build, own, and operate up to three service operation vessels (SOVs) for offshore wind farm operations in the North Sea. The contracts were awarded following a “complex and competitive” tender process that took place throughout 2024.
Under the agreement, LDA will provide two firm SOVs, with an option for a third. The vessels will support operations and maintenance at several offshore wind farms, beginning with the DanTysk and Sandbank sites, each with a capacity of 288MW. The first SOV is expected to enter service in mid-2027. The second SOV will support the Nordlicht 1 and 2 wind farms, with capacities of 980MW and 630MW, respectively, and is set to begin operations by the end of 2027. The third optional SOV is intended for future projects in the North Sea.
Pavlo Malyshenko, head of offshore generation at Vattenfall Wind, emphasized the importance of the vessels to the company's broader goals. “The vessels will support our mission of safe, reliable, and sustainable operation and delivery on cost efficiency ambitions in Sandbank and DanTysk, as well as the coming Nordlicht 1 and 2 wind farms,” he said. “This will strengthen competitiveness of our far offshore wind assets and our position as one of the leading wind developers and operators in Northern Europe.”
The SOVs, which will be registered under the French flag, are designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, both during operations and while in transit. They are built to withstand the harsh conditions of the North Sea year-round, with a focus on safety and operational efficiency. Special attention has been given to ensuring optimal working conditions for technicians, with the vessels featuring spacious and comfortable living quarters for rest periods.
Edouard Louis-Dreyfus, president of LDA, highlighted the strategic importance of the contracts. “We are proud to establish this new partnership with Vattenfall, recognizing our expertise in designing and operating purpose-built SOVs,” he said. “This reinforces our ambitions in the global offshore wind industry, and our commitment to decarbonisation.
The SOVs' design includes a double-ended hull with two propellers, providing precise dynamic positioning and greater flexibility in offshore operations. Additionally, the vessels are equipped with azimuth thrusters, an adjustable-height stern boat landing, and a walk-to-work gangway for safe personnel transfers. The ships also feature a 3D crane for cargo transfers and hotel-standard accommodation for crew members, ensuring comfort during standby periods.
The contract further strengthens LDA's position in the offshore wind sector, underscoring its growth in the SOV market and complementing its existing presence in the crew transfer vessel market.
