HEA Energy has acquired the jack-up vessels Thor and Wind Lift 1 from Semco Maritime as part of a long-term partnership aimed at expanding major component exchange (MCE) and major component overhauling (MCO) services for offshore wind projects in Europe.
Under the agreement, Semco Maritime will retain access to the vessels through a long-term charter arrangement. The deal combines Semco Maritime’s technical expertise in offshore wind services with HEA Energy’s more than 40 years of maritime experience and marine operating capabilities.
The companies said the partnership will provide greater flexibility for customers and create a platform for supporting the growing number of offshore wind projects requiring major component replacement and refurbishment.
“The long-term partnership with HEA Energy will create lasting value by combining Semco Maritime’s broad expertise in major component exchanges and overhauling with HEA Energy’s vessel and maritime capabilities,” said Thomas Thomsen, Senior Vice President, Renewables, at Semco Maritime. “We are establishing a strong foundation that increases flexibility for our customers and supports the continued growth of offshore wind across Europe.”
The partnership will also make use of Semco Maritime’s overhaul facility in Emden, Germany, which is equipped with a 450-tonne gantry crane and provides direct access to the North Sea.
The facility is used for the refurbishment, overhaul and logistics of major wind turbine components and will serve as a support hub for both existing and future offshore wind projects.
“The acquisition of Thor and Wind Lift 1 and long-term charter agreements marks the beginning of a long-term relationship with Semco Maritime,” said Jonas Munch Agerskov, Chief Executive Officer Europe at HEA Energy.
“By combining Semco Maritime’s technical capabilities, customer relationships and strategic infrastructure in Emden with HEA Energy’s maritime platform, we are creating a compelling foundation for future growth and expanding our growing presence in the European offshore wind sector.”
The companies expect the partnership to benefit from the expanding pipeline of offshore wind projects being developed by major industry players, including Ørsted, RWE and Equinor.
