Fairplay Towage Group takes delivery of two Damen tugs

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April 27, 2023

In week 14 Damen Shipyards Group delivered two RSD Tugs 2513 to the Fairplay Towage Group. The vessels will operate in Germany and Poland, respectively. During the same week, the company signed a further contract which will see Damen delivering an additional three tugs to its client; two more RSD Tugs 2513 and an ASD Tug 2813.

Although built to proven, standard Damen designs, the tugs are being built with a number of options to ensure their suitability for Fairplay Towage Group’s requirements.

In the case of the RSD Tugs 2513, Damen is also providing ice reinforcement to enable the tugs to operate in light ice conditions.

Due to Damen’s practice of constructing vessels in series for stock, the three vessels of the latest order will be delivered before the end of the year. Damen, which seeks to supports its clients with a comprehensive portfolio of services spanning the entire lifecycle, is also arranging the transportation of the vessels from its yard in Vietnam via heavy lift ship.

As part of ship delivery support, Damen Services provides a contact person who is available round the clock to provide any information that the customer may require. Additionally, Damen handles contact with the carrier, export documentation, drawings and calculations, transfer to location and all lashing and loading operations.

Damen sales manager for Germany Joschka Boddeling said:

“We are very grateful to Fairplay Towage for this latest order. Starting with the Fairplay 37, the company has ordered a total of seven Damen vessels over the last eighteen months. It’s an honour to see the relationship between our two companies continue to develop in this way and I’m looking forward to continuing our collaboration.”

Philip-Alexander Harmstorf, Managing Director of Fairplay Towage said:

“We are very happy to place another order with Damen. These tugs will help to increase the commonality of our fleet, increasing the efficiency of our operations. Throughout our previous orders with Damen, the communication and response has been excellent; they have always done what they have said they will do. Furthermore, we really value the local presence they have established in Hamburg for both sales and service.”

Wärtsilä and MPA collaborate in accelerating maritime digitalisation

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April 27, 2023

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Technology group Wärtsilä and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at collaborating in mutually beneficial areas to enable the introduction of next generation renewable fuels, optimise digital port operations, and develop future talent.

Under the MoU, signed in April, MPA and Wärtsilä will explore renewable fuel technologies and seek partnerships with various stakeholders to develop green fuel safety concepts and procedures to ensure safe handling and operation of future fuels. Insights gained will support the development of global standards for maritime fuel safety.

The parties will seek to make port operations more efficient through developing reliable, secure, and cost-effective data exchanges between vessels and port operations. Sharing of data at scale, including real time data, has potentials of unlocking insights to optimise port and vessel operations such as Just-in-Time planning. It can also greatly enhance data-based value generation, including the development of new capabilities and operational processes. The development of an operational concept for vessels and harbour craft utilising AI-based monitoring, tracking, and incident response, is also planned. Big data from Wärtsilä’s Navi-Port system, MPA’s digital platforms and other relevant sources will be at the core of the algorithms to power the AI.

MPA and Wärtsilä will also collaborate on assessing cyber threats and risks to shipboard systems, ship-shore system communications and MPA’s digital platforms.

To equip future maritime workforce with skills and competencies relating to digitalisation and decarbonisation, MPA and Wärtsilä will explore working with partners and stakeholders to identify new skills. The collaboration could include working with the Tripartite Advisory Panel under the Alliance for Future Maritime Talent (AFMT TAP) to co-create enhanced training curriculum to improve training effectiveness.

Kenneth Lim, Assistant Chief Executive (Industry and Transformation), MPA, said:

“As a major bunkering and a maritime hub port supported by a robust R&D and start-up ecosystem, Singapore is at the heart of marintech innovation and at an exciting phase for the potential introduction of maritime fuels such as methanol, hydrogen and its derivatives such as ammonia. MPA looks forward to our partnership with Wärtsilä to unlock our collective potentials and develop solutions that can be scaled to benefit global maritime community.”

Roger Holm, President of Marine Power at Wärtsilä, commented:

“Over the years we have established a strong relationship with MPA, having worked together on various projects aimed at boosting efficiencies and sustainability. This collaboration elevates Wärtsilä’s previous MoU with MPA to include new impactful areas in decarbonisation and talent development. The partnership will promote innovation and accelerate the industry’s transition to new cleaner fuels and the adoption of the latest technologies. By working in close cooperation with all relevant stakeholders and qualified partners, Wärtsilä and MPA are making a concerted effort to create more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable maritime operations.”

Ocean Winds starts construction of 2 GW of offshore wind energy

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April 27, 2023

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Present at Wind Europe 2023, Ocean Winds, an international company dedicated to offshore wind energy and created as a 50-50 joint venture in 2020 by EDP Renewables and ENGIE, announced today the Final Investment Decision taken on its Dieppe Le Tréport offshore wind farm in France. The project of around 500 MW in France represents a total investment of €2.7 billion.

Earlier in April 2023, Ocean Winds has accomplished key steps by reaching the Financial Investment decision on its îles d’Yeu Noirmoutier offshore wind project in France (around 500 MW) project, and the achievement of Financial Close on Moray West (882 MW), in Scotland.

Reaching these stages allows both projects to enter their construction phase, which means that close to 2 GW of OW’s portfolio is currently under construction, in addition to its 1.5 GW already operating. With €7.4 billion of total investment secured for these projects, Ocean Winds is demonstrating its capacity and engagement to secure the construction, delivery and operation of its offshore wind farms.

As Grzegorz Gorski, Chief Operating Officer of Ocean Winds, commented:

“Securing financing for three offshore wind projects this month not only demonstrates our commitment to delivering clean energy and unlocking local opportunities but shows our solution-driven experience and leadership in the offshore wind energy sector.” He added, “Despite the current global economic challenges, inflation and tension on the supply chain, we have renewed our commitment to the realization of our projects securing financing, demonstrating the confidence that the financial markets hold in the strength of our projects and us as the delivery partner.”

In addition, and since last year’s Wind Europe event, OW’s has expanded its global presence by including new projects into its portfolio: Caledonia (2GW), Bluepoint Wind (1.7 GW), Arven (1.8 GW), the Shetland project (500 MW), and our latest success, Golden State Wind (2GW). From those 8 GW secured in 2022, more than half corresponds to floating technology.

Being the floating content partner of the event, Wind Europe 2023 represents the opportunity for OW to share its pioneer position and experience as the main shareholder of WindFloat Atlantic, the world’s first semi-submersible floating offshore wind farm, and introduce the development of commercial scale floating projects in United-States, United-Kingdom, and South Korea.

Cygnus supports UK energy security with first gas from 11th well

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April 27, 2023

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Neptune Energy and its partner, Spirit Energy, today announced production has commenced from the 11th well at its operated Cygnus gas field in the southern North Sea, unlocking much-needed additional supplies and supporting UK energy independence.

The new well is expected to produce approximately 4,000 boepd, enough gas to heat approximately 200,000 UK homes. Together with the 10th well which started up earlier this year, the Cygnus facility is expected to produce enough gas per day to meet the needs of around 1.9 million UK households.

The Cygnus field continues to have one of the lowest carbon intensities on the UK Continental Shelf.

Neptune Energy’s UK Country Director, Alan Muirhead, said:

“Cygnus plays an important role in supporting UK energy security and has the capacity to supply around 6% of the country’s gas demand.

“We’re taking steps to boost North Sea gas production which reduces the UK’s reliance on less secure and more carbon intensive supplies of imported energy, and also supports the government’s aim of achieving energy independence by 2040.”

Spirit Energy’s CEO, Neil McCulloch, added:

“Continuing to secure reliable and responsible supplies of energy from the UK continental shelf has never been more important. Spirit Energy is delighted to welcome first gas from the joint venture’s most recent investment in Cygnus, as gas continues to be a key energy source in the transition towards Net Zero.”

The 10th and 11th wells were drilled by Borr Drilling’s Prospector 1 jack-up rig.

“Viking Saturn” delivered in Ancona

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April 26, 2023

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The unit will be placed in the small cruise ship segment. As its sister ships, she is about 47,800 tons, 465 cabins with accommodation for 930 passengers.

“Viking Saturn”, tenth of this class, has been designed by experienced naval architects and engineers, including an interior design team of Los Angeles-based Rottet Studios and London-based SMC Design, who gave the ship a modern design of Scandinavian inspiration, characterized by sophisticated yet functional elegance.

In addition to the all-veranda staterooms, the ship also has spacious suites with sweeping views, two pools, of which one infinity pool off the stern, abundant options for al fresco dining, and a spa designed according to the wellness philosophy of the Scandinavian tradition, with a sauna and a snow grotto.

The Viking units are all built according to the latest navigation regulations, are equipped with the most modern safety systems, including the “safe return to port”, and are certified from Lloyd’s Register from the very first ship delivered in 2015.

The ships also feature energy-efficient engines, optimized hydrodynamics and hull thereby reducing consumption, as well as systems which minimize pollution produced by exhaust gases, meeting the strictest environmental regulations.

Danfoss’ Editron division to power Hong Kong’s new generation of hybrid-electric ferries

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April 26, 2023

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Ferries are an essential transportation mode for Hong Kong, carrying 18 million passengers annually. To achieve net zero by 2050, Hong Kong plans to decarbonize its transport sector by electrifying vehicles and ferries.

To help reach this target, the Hong Kong government earmarked funding in its 2020 budget to replace existing diesel-powered ferries with hybrid and electric alternatives from 2025 onward. Part of this budget will be used for Cheoy Lee Shipyard’s new 35- and 40-meter high-speed catamarans. Each vessel will be capable of carrying up to 450 passengers at a speed of 23 knots. Two of these new ferries will be hybrid-electric and powered by an integrated marine solution supplied by Danfoss’ Editron division.

A parallel hybrid DC-link grid system will power each hybrid-electric ferry. The power system consists of two Editron permanent magnet motors, two Cummins QSK50 main engines, four sets of power batteries totaling 311.2 kilowatts, and multiple frequency converters. Danfoss’ Editron motors can switch between the two operating modes of power generation. When sailing in the emission control area, the ferries will run on zero-emission electric propulsion, switching to diesel power outside the emission control area. The excess power from the main diesel engine will generate electricity to charge the battery and supply hotel loads. The ferries will also be able to operate in zero-emission mode during maneuvering and berthing.

Chao Wang, head of Editron sales and business development China, Danfoss Power Solutions., said:

“We’re thrilled to support Hong Kong’s decarbonization mission. These ferries will be the first in Hong Kong to feature our DC-link grid system, and we’re looking forward to demonstrating the full potential of the technology. Our compact and lightweight marine system can achieve maximum efficiencies of up to 98% while reducing operation and maintenance costs and saving space in a vessel’s engine room. Additionally, the advanced software behind the system controls and optimizes the powertrain’s individual components, enabling more efficient management of power distribution and better handling of a vessel.”

Martin Lo, director at Cheoy Lee Shipyard, added:

“As a shipyard with a long history, we’re pleased to see that the energy saving and emission reduction potential offered by electric propulsion will have a huge impact on the future of Hong Kong’s marine industry. We will work closely with Danfoss’ Editron division to develop the local electrification market and provide excellent quality ships to our customers.”

The two ferries are expected to be delivered to their owner by the middle of 2024.

AKVA group with large boat contract to Canada

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April 26, 2023

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Three of these are the 685 Work model, while two are the 1050 model. The contract was signed in the spring of 2023, and the boats will be used as work and transport vessels at the Placentia Bay aquaculture sea site.

“We are well acquainted with the Polarcirkel boats that are made and tested in Northern Norway. Some of our employees are from Norway and are familiar with the hardy Polarcirkel boats. With the new boats, we will get to our site even faster. We look forward to using them,” says Public Relations Manager Perry Power at Grieg Seafood Newfoundland.

The Polarcirkel 685 will be delivered in June, and the Polarcirkel 1050 will be delivered in September. This is the second time AKVA group has delivered boats to Grieg Seafood Newfoundland.

“This is one of the largest boat deliveries AKVA group has made in a single order. Polarcirkel boats are great work boats, able to withstand a lot and are safe. The boats are made for Nordic environments and therefore good in all kinds of conditions in the world,” says General Manager Freddy Bakken Braseth in AKVA group Helgeland Plast.

General Manager of AKVA group North America Brian Bosien says there has been a good collaboration between all parties, and he is very pleased with the delivery.

AKVA group has sold three Polarcirkel boats to Grieg Seafood Newfoundland before, and with these five new boats, the total number will be eight boats in one year. Polarcirkel boats are well-suited for the activity in Newfoundland.

“There is a large market potential in Canada. It’s great to be the preferred boat supplier for Grieg Seafood Newfoundland,” says Bosien.

Grieg Seafood is one of the world’s leading salmon farming companies. Their farms are in Finnmark and Rogaland in Norway, and British Columbia and Newfoundland in Canada. The headquarter is located in Bergen, Norway. More than 750 people work in the company throughout their regions.

Svitzer selected as towage provider at Fawley Refinery

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April 26, 2023

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This contract reinforces Svitzer’s position in the UK and will increase synergies with the port of Southampton.

The contract was awarded after an open-tender process, in which Svitzer demonstrated its ability to utilise assets across Fawley and Southampton to provide a more efficient solution for ExxonMobil. Svitzer already owns the three tugs operating at Fawley Refinery and the intention is to continue operating them with existing personnel, with the crews being offered to continue in their current roles, but as Svitzer employees.

The contract includes the provision of line handling as well as operation of three launch boats and two mooring pontoons. Two shore-based staff will spend the majority of their time servicing the Fawley operation, ensuring that ExxonMobil has a face-to-face contact readily available, and that crew have a support network for ensuring compliance, maintenance, storing and day-to-day operations run smoothly.

The Fawley deal furthers Svitzer’s long-standing position as a leading towage provider in the UK, including a harbour towage operation in nearby Southampton, which has been servicing a wide range of customers for more than 15 years. In addition to the tugs operating at Fawley, Svitzer currently operates five tugs in nearby Southampton.

Commenting on the announcement, Lise Demant, Managing Director, Svitzer Europe, said:

“We are very proud to have been selected as the provider for towage services at the Fawley Refinery, and excited to provide our high-quality towage services to ExxonMobil. This contract is a great win for all of us at Svitzer. It enables us to grow our position in the UK, while driving synergies with our existing harbour towage operations at the port of Southampton, and welcoming new, skilled colleagues into the Svitzer family.”

Cadeler signs two contracts with Ørsted

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April 26, 2023

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Together the two contracts constitute a very large contract award. The foundations contract will position the company in a completely new and strategic business area as a full-service T&I provider in the foundations space.

The first contract is for the transportation and installation (T&I) of all monopile type foundations on the project. The foundations contract will position the company in a completely new and strategic business area as a full-service T&I provider in the foundations space. The project is expected to begin in Q1/2026 and finish by the end of the year. The two companies signed the reservation agreement for this project back in August 2022.

The second contract is for the installation of around half of the Wind Turbine Generators (WTGs) required. The turbine project is forecast to begin just as the foundations project is completed around Q4/2026 and is expected to finish in 2027. Cadeler will make use of one of its two newbuild X-class vessels.

With more than 500 foundations installed, Cadeler is very experienced in the offshore foundations space. But this will be the first time the company will be in charge of the whole T&I foundations scope and become a full-service provider in the offshore foundation business. This also means Cadeler will be fully accountable for delivering the end product including a defect notification period after the installation is completed.

As this will be the first of many full-service contracts Cadeler plans to execute in the future, the company is currently scaling up with a strong team of project managers, engineers, and foundations specialists onshore. For this project alone, Cadeler expects to employ 25-30 office personnel and 30-35 specialist offshore technicians. Furthermore, Cadeler has ordered two specialized F-class jack-up vessels specifically designed to excel in the T&I of the future generation of XXL monopile foundations such as the ones used in this Hornsea 3 project.

The contracts are built on a strong partnership and project history between Cadeler and Ørsted. Among other Ørsted projects, Cadeler has installed monopile foundations at the Hornsea 2 project, Borkum Riffgrund 1 and of West of Duddon Sands. This third phase of the massive-scale wind farm in the Hornsea zone will therefore be a natural continuation of the work done by Cadeler in the past. 

Patrick Harnett, Ørsted’s Vice President for Execution Programmes, said:

“Hornsea 3 will represent another significant step forward for the offshore wind industry in terms of size and scale. To execute a project of this nature requires meticulous planning and skill, therefore close collaboration and strong relationships with our partners is key to success. We look forward to working alongside Cadeler when offshore construction begins to ensure the safe and high-quality delivery of the project.”

Mikkel Gleerup, CEO at Cadeler says:

“This marks the beginning of a new and strategic direction for Cadeler, and I am happy to finally unveil what we have been working on for a long time together with our good business partners at Ørsted. We have specifically designed our newbuild vessels and developed a competent team to handle all aspects of projects within the foundations scope, and we look forward to playing an important part in this ambitious and record-breaking wind farm project.”

The Hornsea 3 wind farm, subject to Ørsted taking a Final Investment Decision on the project, will generate at least 2.85 GW of clean, renewable energy, enough to meet the average daily needs of more than 3 million UK homes. This new wind farm will be located in the North Sea, off the east coast of the UK, spreading across an area of 696 square kilometres. The Hornsea Projects consist of four record-breaking offshore wind farms which Ørsted are operating, constructing and developing.

GTMaritime and CrowdStrike to combat growing cyber threats to shipping

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April 26, 2023

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The software only solution from CrowdStrike is backed up by GTMaritime’s extensive maritime expertise to support regulatory compliance and protect ships from known and unknown malware and zero-day threats.

Utilising AI based Next Gen Antivirus (NGAV) with no signatures, CrowdStrike addresses gaps in legacy anti-virus solutions to provide full attack visibility and control. It includes a range of advanced features such as the ability to isolate assets remotely, device control – including USB locking – and functionality to create group wide, ship, or endpoint specific policies. With a comprehensive shore-side management portal, the solution can be installed without the need for an engineer onboard.

The new solution will be available from GTMaritime in two options depending on customer specific requirements. It can include additional Security Operations Centre (SOC) services from GTMaritime to assist users with IMO compliance, while also offering access to the company’s 24/7 support team.

Richard White, Global Commercial Director at GTMaritime said:

“We are delighted to be working with CrowdStrike and to be in a position to deliver one of the most advanced cybersecurity solutions to the shipping industry. As cyberattacks continue to evolve and become increasingly sophisticated, it’s vital that ship owners and managers are equipped with the most advanced solutions to track and identify threats and protect ships and connected infrastructure.”

“Advances in satellite connectivity have allowed our clients to further integrate their ship and shore operations and CrowdStrike brings the necessary cyber protection that you would expect whilst being backed up by GTMaritime’s 24 / 7 support.”