Ørsted has secured a series of logistics and vessel contracts to support the construction and commissioning of its 2.9-gigawatt Hornsea 3 offshore wind farm, set to become the world’s largest single offshore wind project.
The agreements include the deployment of nine vessels and aircraft, ranging from a new service operation vessel (SOV) and helicopters to support and monitoring craft, the company said on Tuesday.
Among the confirmed assets is the Esvagt James Blythe, an SOV currently under construction, which will provide at least 44 on-board jobs. Crew transfer operations will be supported by two CHC Helicopter aircraft — a 16-seat H175 and a 12-seat AW139.
Additional logistics will be provided by Scarborough-based Mainprize Offshore, which will supply two guard vessels, and Gulf Marine Services, which will contribute the Enterprise jack-up barge. The barge can accommodate over 120 workers and operate in water depths up to 80 metres.
Other support vessels include a hybrid crew transfer vessel (CTV) from MHO, an E-Class vessel from Northern Offshore Services, and an uncrewed service vessel for monitoring and survey operations.
“Our vessels for construction and commissioning activities provide the backbone for building Hornsea 3,” said Jason Ledden, senior project director at Ørsted. “Effective logistics are key in moving our personnel, components and equipment so construction can take place safely and efficiently. This next stage in the project will bring more jobs and economic growth to the UK as well as clean power for more than 3 million households.”
Industry partners also expressed support for the project.
“We are proud to support Ørsted in delivering Hornsea 3, the world’s largest single offshore wind farm,” said Justin Coates, commercial manager at Mainprize Offshore.
Dave Grant, commercial director at CHC, added: “Hornsea 3 is a landmark for UK energy, and we’re proud to play our part in delivering offshore wind at this scale.”
Brian Schlosser, head of commercials at MHO, noted that Ørsted’s choice of hybrid CTVs aligns with the company’s goal of “reducing fuel consumption and lowering the carbon footprint of our vessels.”
David Kristensson, CEO of Northern Offshore Services, highlighted the firm’s long-standing relationship with Ørsted and said they are “glad to support the development of Hornsea 3.”
Hornsea 3, located off the east coast of England, is expected to provide clean energy to over 3 million UK homes once operational.
