Bibby Marine, Kongsberg Maritime and Stillstrom have jointly called on the offshore wind sector to take urgent action to reduce its carbon footprint, highlighting the need for widespread adoption of existing low-emission technologies.
The call comes as Bibby Marine invests in the world’s first zero-emission commissioning service operation vessel (eCSOV), underscoring its commitment to decarbonising offshore wind operations.
In an open letter, the companies said: “We are calling on our colleagues across the industry to respond to pressures on the cost of wind farm construction with a commitment to the adoption and deployment of technologies that will wipe out our carbon footprint. These technologies exist today and offer commercial advantages over conventionally fuelled vessels – let’s celebrate them, nurture them, and act to deploy them; together.”
The letter acknowledged the relatively low carbon footprint of offshore wind power generation, which is around 10 times lower per megawatt-hour than fossil-fuel-based energy. However, it warned that the rapid expansion of renewables globally will lead to increased carbon emissions if vessel operations are not addressed.
“If we truly want to be a net zero emissions sector, we need to work harder to eliminate our sources of carbon emissions,” the companies added.
The letter also identified vessel emissions during construction, installation and operations as a “significant problem” for the industry. It pointed to ongoing efforts to develop zero-emission vessels and infrastructure, stating: “Working with our partners – developers, owners, EPCIs, and O&M providers – we are laying the keel of a vessel and establishing the network of infrastructure that will take us to net-zero infield emissions.”
It further noted that “infield charging can be delivered today to extend the capacity of eCSOVs and eSOVs supporting operations,” which can reduce emissions by up to 20%, while lowering operating costs and improving working conditions.
The companies called on original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and the broader industry to signal demand to encourage further investment in low-carbon infrastructure. “Across our industry’s sub-sectors, we have come together to provide that demand signal and create the momentum for lower construction and development costs that will unlock the offshore wind pipeline and continue to drive the energy transition,” the letter said.
