ClassNK issues AiP for retrofitted methanol dual fuel Kamsarmax bulk carrier

By

-

April 4, 2025

ClassNK has issued an approval in principle for the design concept of a retrofitted Kamsarmax bulk carrier, converting it from conventional fuel to methanol dual-fuel, jointly developed by TSUNEISHI SHIPBUILDING Co., Ltd. and Fonden Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping.

This certification demonstrates the regulatory feasibility of the ship, serving as a meaningful step in advancing the transition of the existing fleet to alternative fuels, as bulk carriers of this size are widely operated today.

The design concept was developed as part of a project exploring the conversion of Tsuneishi’s Kamsarmax bulk carrier standard design to a methanol dual fuel configuration. Aiming to establish a model that could pave the way for a broader green transition within the medium-sized bulk carrier sector the project is working through retrofit challenges, such as determining the location of the new methanol fuel tanks.

ClassNK carried out a design review of the design concept based on ‘Part A Guidelines for Ships Using Methyl/Ethyl Alcohol as Fuels (Edition 3.0.0)’ of the ‘Guidelines for Ships Using Alternative Fuels’ and examined the risk assessment through HAZID. ClassNK issued AiP upon confirming the feasibility of key design, including the arrangement of methanol fuel tanks and fuel supply systems, in terms of regulatory compliance.

RWE signs PPA with 5 UK Co-operatives to supply renewable energy across over 400 locations

By

Chief Editor

-

April 4, 2025

0

RWE have signed a landmark 10-year corporate power purchase agreement (CPPA) to supply electricity from renewable energy sources to over 400 locations across the UK.

Starting the 1st of April 2025, the long-term contract will provide up to 53 gigawatt hours (GWh) of green electricity per year, enough to power over 400 retail stores, funeral homes, travel agents and more. Sourced from the London Array offshore wind farm in the outer Thames Estuary, this agreement will see significant savings for the five co-operatives throughout the lifetime of the CPPA.

The offshore wind farm London Array is operated by RWE and owned by a consortium of four partners: RWE (30%), Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, Greencoat UK Wind PLC, and Masdar Energy UK Limited. It has 175 wind turbines and an installed capacity of 630 megawatts. From the time of its fully commissioning in 2013 until September 2018, it was the largest offshore wind farm in the world.

By securing long-term renewable energy, these five independent co-operatives are not only reducing their carbon footprint but also reinforcing their commitment to ethical business practices and environmental responsibility. The agreement was made possible through a collaboration with Inspired PLC, the UK’s leading energy and sustainability advisor, who negotiated the CPPA, and Shoosmiths LLP, who led the legal negotiations. Notably, this deal was executed in just three months, less than half the usual timeframe, demonstrating the expertise and efficiency of the partnerships involved.

CMA CGM’s new container ship Tiga delivered

By

Chief Editor

-

April 4, 2025

0

This marks the completion of a major project for which BV provided classification services and Bureau Veritas Solutions M&O provided advisory services, helping to ensure compliance with international safety, structural integrity and environmental protection requirements as well as maximizing performance.

The CMA CGM TIGA, a new-generation, medium-sized container vessel, was designed by CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding in collaboration with the Shanghai Ship Research & Design Institute (SDARI). With a length of 255.5 meters, a width of 40.0 meters, and a deadweight tonnage of 73,025.91 tons, the vessel incorporates advanced technologies such as the world’s first WinGD7X82-2.0 main engine, along with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Alternate Maritime Power (AMP) systems, significantly reducing sulfur oxide (SOx) and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. This contributes to the broader industry goal of enhancing sustainability.

Providing classification services, BV worked closely with CMA CGM, CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding, China Shipbuilding Trading Co., Ltd. (CSTC), and the engine manufacturer to help support the success of the series with design support, including plan approval to BV classification rules, statutory requirements and survey under construction services.

BVS advisory services expertise has successfully supported the optimization of each ship’s energy efficiency and performance. The series has achieved an Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) 53.6% below the baseline, surpassing IMO Phase III standards for environmental performance. BVS contributed to the series’ design and operational efficiency, providing advisory services, also including springing vibration analysis in a global finite element model and reducing design cycles, while helping support structural integrity and helping ensure timely steel procurement.

In addition, BV also conducted full-process precision monitoring to ensure that the vessels met required standards. This included successfully passing container hold tests and ensuring compliance with hull welding quality standards. Safety features such as the Fuel Oil Rapid Recovery System (FORS) notation and an insulation fault alarm and positioning system for low-voltage refrigerated container circuits were also incorporated, further enhancing the vessels’ operational safety and efficiency. The FORS notation ensures swift fuel recovery from tanks in emergencies. Crucially, elastic deformation of large hull structures was factored into shaft alignment calculations to prevent propeller shaft and bearing wear.

Matthieu de Tugny, President of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore, said: “We are proud to have contributed to the successful delivery of the CMA CGM TIGA, the final vessel in this significant series of 5500TEU container ships. I would like to congratulate all involved and thanks the BV teams for their hard work as this project underscores our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that uphold high standards of safety, environmental performance, and operational efficiency. We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with CMA CGM, Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding, CSTC, and all partners involved in advancing sustainable and high-performance shipping.”

Captain Jan V. Iversen, Area Manager of CMA Ships, said: “I’d like to reiterate our warm recognition to the Shipyard and to the CSSC group for their cooperation and support during all the stages of the construction of this vessel. I’d also like to thank our trustful partners: CSTC, Bureau Veritas, SDARI, Clarkson and all other involved parties for their support.”

Mr. Haijun Yin, General Manager Assistant of CSSC Qingdao Beihai Shipbuilding, said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to CMA CGM, Bureau Veritas, and CSTC for their long-term support to our development. We eagerly anticipate expanding our cooperation with CMA CGM, Bureau Veritas and CSTC across broader domains, jointly pioneering innovations that redefine industry standards and contribute to the sustainable future of global shipping.”

Kongsberg secures equipment contract for new Offshore Support Vessel for DOF

By

Chief Editor

-

April 3, 2025

0

The new 110 metre OSV, with a capacity to accommodate 164 people, is designed by MMC Ship Design and constructed at CRIST shipyard in Gdynia, Poland. The vessel will operate offshore Newfoundland, known for its harsh environmental conditions.

It will be equipped with a comprehensive range of Kongsberg Maritime systems, including the DC main switchboard, battery hybrid system, main power generator, thruster induction motor, and distribution transformer.

One of the biggest features is the DC electric system, which offers several compelling advantages over traditional AC systems, including enhanced energy efficiency, reduced space and weight requirements, improved power quality, and better dynamic response. These benefits make DC electrical systems increasingly favoured for modern offshore vessels, particularly those focused on energy efficiency, hybrid propulsion, and advanced operational capabilities.

Kongsberg Maritime’s battery-hybrid propulsion system will comprise two 1MWh battery packs, this advanced system will be complemented by a DC electric system designed to ensure the highest operational efficiency.

With these innovations, the new ship is set to achieve fuel savings of up to 35% compared to similar vessels, marking a significant step forward in sustainable maritime technology.

DOF has also selected a range of Kongsberg Maritime technology to support its offshore operations, for navigation, automation and control systems, as well as the company’s K-Pos Dynamic Positioning system (DP-3).

Saipem awarded new offshore contracts for a total amount of approximately 720 million USD

By

Chief Editor

-

April 3, 2025

0

Saipem has been awarded new contracts in Middle East and Guyana for a total amount of approximately 720 million USD.

The first contract encompasses the engineering, procurement, construction and installation (EPCI) activities for the repair of damaged subsea pipelines for a major client in Middle East.

The duration of the project is expected to last 3 years and it emphasizes the growing importance of the maintenance of existing offshore fields, which is an integral part of Saipem portfolio complementing the EPCIC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation & Commissioning) and EPRD (Engineering, Preparatory works, Removal and Disposal) business.

The second contract is a Limited Notice To Proceed (LNTP) by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited, pending necessary government and regulatory approvals, and involves the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation (EPCI) of subsea structures, umbilicals, risers and flowlines (SURF) for the production facility and gas export system of the proposed Hammerhead oil field development project, located in the Stabroek block offshore Guyana at a water depth of around 1,000 meters.

The LNTP allows Saipem to start early work activities, namely detailed engineering and procurement, to ensure an earliest possible project startup in 2029, should the project receive the necessary government approvals. The performance of the remaining activities (i.e., construction and installation) provided by the contract is subject to government and regulatory approval as well as project sanction by ExxonMobil Guyana Limited and its Stabroek Block coventurers.

Saipem will perform the operations by using a variety of construction and support vessels, including Saipem FDS2. The logistics will be entirely executed and managed in Guyana through the Vreed-en-Hoop Shorebase Inc. (VEHSI) yard, generating employment and Local Content opportunities for Guyanese. The duration of the project is expected to last 4 years.

Port Houston orders 16 new hybrid Konecranes RTGs

By

Chief Editor

-

April 3, 2025

0

Port Houston is adding to its large Konecranes RTG fleet with an order for 16 hybrid Konecranes RTGs. The deal was booked in Q1 2025 and delivery is scheduled for H1 2026.

Located on the U.S. Gulf Coast, Port Houston is a key hub for international trade and industry. It handles more container traffic than any other port on the Gulf and ranks among the busiest ports in the United States.

Port Houston has long counted on Konecranes RTGs to handle its high-volume traffic. With these new orders, the port will be operating a fleet of 163 Konecranes RTGs – including 73 hybrid models.

The 16 new hybrid Konecranes RTGs, designed for 1-over-6 stacking capacity, will be equipped with advanced Smart Features such as Auto-steering, Stack Collision Prevention and Truck Lift Prevention. Their hybrid power units enable the port to reduce emissions and save on fuel costs.

The eight retrofits will add the same Smart Features, as well as Gantry Collision Prevention, Auto-Steering and new E-Chains. Carried out by Konecranes Port Services, the retrofits will extend the lifetime of an important part of the port authority’s existing Konecranes RTG fleet and align them with the latest technology and safety standards.

“The trust we’ve built with Konecranes played an important role in our decision to make these investments. We work in partnership with the skilled labor who work at our container terminals to determine the best equipment for the operations at Port Houston and Konecranes RTGs keep our operations running safely and smoothly. We value the consistent support we receive from Konecranes Port Services and are confident the team is always on hand to help us when needed,” says Nathan Fabian, Director, Port Cranes at Port Houston.

By investing in Konecranes’ proven hybrid power technology and modernizing part of its existing container handling equipment, Port Houston is preparing for long-term growth. The high performance of Konecranes RTGs and the technical expertise provided by Konecranes Port Services enable the port to efficiently scale operations as demand increases.

“We’re very happy to continue supporting Port Houston with these new RTG deliveries and advanced retrofits. The orders reflect the industry-leading strengths of our hybrid RTG technology and the incredible skills of our Port Services team,” says Jussi Sarpio, Director Regional Sales Americas, Konecranes, Port Solutions.

Cruise Port Rotterdam shore power installation commissioned

By

Chief Editor

-

April 3, 2025

0

The official inauguration was performed by Robert Simons, Alderman for Port & Economy, and Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of Port of Rotterdam Authority. This makes the ms AIDAnova the first cruise ship to use shore power in Rotterdam. With the commissioning of the shore power installation, Cruise Port Shore Power is staying ahead of European law, which stipulates that all cruise ships in European ports must use shore power by 2030.

The shore power installation was built by Danish company PowerCon in collaboration with Port of Rotterdam Authority, the municipality of Rotterdam, STEDIN, IGUS and project partners J.P. van Eesteren, Heijmans, Royal HaskoningDHV and Xylem on behalf of Cruise Port Shore Power. The Rotterdam installation is innovative and one of a kind. In addition to the shore power installation, a 230-meter-long cable duct has been installed in the quay, along with a new type of connection vehicle. The cable duct provides a flexible connection point along the entire 230 meters. Because the location of a shore power connection differs for each ship, this is a very practical and innovative solution.

The composite, flexible-use support vehicle is small and therefore easy to use. The cable duct ensures that there are no obstructions or disruptions from cables on the quay. The cooling system of the shore power installation, like the cooling system of the cruise terminal, is cooled using water from the river Maas. The installation involved installing a separate 1.5-kilometre sustainable electricity grid connection from Maashaven to Wilhelminakade.

Robert Simons, Alderman for Port & Economy: “Cruise ships are a valuable source of income, and by disconnecting them from the power grid, we are improving the air quality and reducing noise pollution. That is good for the quality of life and our economy. I am proud of this result and would like to thank everyone who worked towards this.”

Boudewijn Siemons, CEO Port of Rotterdam Authority: “We are proud and delighted that the shore power installation has been put into operation today. After an intensive construction period, we are today taking an important new step in making the port of Rotterdam and the city more sustainable. Shore power for cruise ships is a crucial and necessary part of this.”

In Rotterdam, people are working hard to make the city and port more sustainable. The shore power installation for cruise ships is a unique sustainability project realized at the interface of city and port. Innovation, planning, cooperation and safety were central to the realization of the project. The project was carried out while the cruise terminal was operational and cruise ships were docking at the quay on a weekly basis. Cruise Port Shore Power expects to be able to connect 75 percent of the cruise ships in Rotterdam to shore power in the first year. Using shore power reduces not only CO2, but also nitrogen and particulate matter emissions. On top of that, noise levels from docked cruise ships also decline significantly.

Vestas wins 495 MW offshore order with V236-15.0 MW turbines in Taiwan

By

Chief Editor

-

April 3, 2025

0

The order includes 33 V236-15.0 MW turbines as well as a long-term comprehensive service agreement designed to ensure optimised performance of the assets. This order marks Vestas’ first firm order for its industry-leading V236-15.0 MW turbine in Taiwan.

“We are honored to deepen our partnership with CIP on the Fengmiao I project, our inaugural venture in Taiwan featuring the V236-15.0 MW turbine. This project marks the start of construction for Taiwan’s first Round 3 offshore wind project and reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative clean energy solutions and supporting Taiwan’s ambitious renewable energy goals. By leveraging our world-class technology and operational expertise, we aim to contribute significantly to the region’s sustainable energy infrastructure and drive the growth of offshore wind energy in Asia Pacific,” said Purvin Patel, President of Vestas Asia Pacific.

“We are proud to collaborate with Vestas for the third time in Taiwan, and even more so to be the first to deploy their cutting-edge V236-15.0 MW turbine,” said Mark Wainwright, Fengmiao I Project CEO. “This milestone reflects our ambition to lead with innovation and set new benchmarks in performance, reliability, and sustainability. We are confident that, together, we will deliver the Fengmiao I project on schedule, safely, and to the highest standards. We look forward to playing a key role in supporting Taiwan’s energy transition and long-term renewable energy goals”.

The construction of the Fengmiao I offshore wind farm is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027, contributing significantly to Taiwan’s renewable energy infrastructure.

Vestas’ flagship offshore wind turbine, the V236-15.0 MW is built on proven, world-class technology and received its type certification in 2023, ensuring safety and quality. Since its launch, Vestas has secured more than 7 GW of firm orders globally, proving the turbine variant’s competitiveness across offshore markets.

SPIE seals contract with Van Oord

By

Chief Editor

-

April 3, 2025

0

SPIE Global Services Energy announces that its wind power high voltage specialised entity, SPIE Wind Connect, has secured a contract with global marine contractor, Van Oord for the termination and testing of inter-array cables on the Ecowende wind farm.

The project scope involves the termination and testing of 52, 66kV inter-array cables on the Hollandse Kust (west) lot VI in the Dutch North Sea, where the Ecowende wind farm will be constructed.

As Ecowende’s official marine contractor, Van Oord is responsible for transporting and installing various components of the wind farm: from the foundations and scour protection to the inter-array cables and turbines.

Sam Dowey, Managing Director at SPIE Wind Connect, commented: “We are delighted to secure our first major contract with Van Oord, and we look forward to continuing to grow our partnership with them into the future. This award highlights SPIE Wind Connect’s significant role in the offshore wind sector and reaffirms our position as a trusted termination and testing contractor in the global offshore market.”

The works are due to commence in April 2026, with the project mock-up scheduled for the second quarter of 2025.

A sustainable future for offshore wind that positively contributes to the North Sea’s ecology; this is what Ecowende hopes to bring about by collaborating with partners and research institutes and utilising progressive innovations.

The Ecowende wind farm will be located approximately 53 kilometres off the Dutch coast, near Ijmuiden, and have an operational capacity of 760 MW, making 3% of the current Dutch electricity demand greener.

Gianluca Petraccia, Wind Power Business Unit Director, commented: “This project is set to incorporate a range of measures to protect and enhance biodiversity, and reducing its impact on marine life. This represents a key milestone in the advancement of wind farm projects in the North Sea, further strengthening our commitment to sustainability and expanding our company’s GreenShare. We are proud to contribute to this initiative.”

Ecowende plans to have the wind farm fully operational and commissioned end 2026.

Cadeler takes delivery of its latest next-generation wind installation vessel, Wind Pace

By

Chief Editor

-

April 3, 2025

0

Delivered safely, on time, and within budget, Wind Pace becomes the seventh vessel in Cadeler’s growing portfolio of wind turbine installation vessels, further strengthening the company’s capacity to meet the increasing global demand for large-scale renewable energy solutions.

Wind Pace was officially named at a naming ceremony on the 12 March at the COSCO Shipping Heavy Industry (COSCO) shipyard in Qidong, China, where she was built.

After her delivery, Wind Pace will be deployed in the U.S. under a contract from Q2 2025 to Q1 2026, supporting a project at an offshore wind farm in the region, Cadeler’s second project in American waters.

Her sister vessel, Wind Peak, the first of Cadeler’s two newbuild P-class vessels, was delivered in August 2024, and has just embarked on her first installation project, the Sofia Offshore Wind Farm, off the Yorkshire coast of the United Kingdom – one of the largest single offshore wind farms in the world.

Wind Pace is specifically designed to handle the increasing size, scope, and complexity of next-generation wind farm projects as well as the most challenging offshore conditions.

The P-class vessels are capable of transporting and installing up to seven complete 15 MW turbine sets per load or five 20+ MW turbines, reducing the number of roundtrips required and significantly accelerating installation time while improving energy and cost efficiency. An advanced hybrid power system and cyber-secure operational infrastructure ensure high efficiency and enhanced safety.

“The P-class vessels set a new benchmark in offshore wind installation technology. With advanced crane capabilities, enhanced transit effectiveness, and reduced energy intensity, these vessels unlock new levels of efficiency for our customers. Wind Peak, the first P-class vessel, has already fully demonstrated this since her delivery last year. Likewise, we expect Wind Pace to play a key role in supporting our clients in the necessary expansion of offshore wind,” says Mikkel Gleerup, CEO of Cadeler.

Being the largest vessels in the Cadeler fleet today, both Wind Peak and Wind Pace boast a deck space of 5,600 m², a payload capacity of over 17,600 tonnes, and a main crane capable of lifting 2,600 tonnes at 47 meters. Additionally, each vessel can accommodate up to 130 crew members and installation technicians.

“Cadeler has always looked for new ways to provide better solutions for our customers whilst remaining conscious of the increasing need for sustainability in our industry. The P-class vessels exemplify this commitment with a design prepared for future dual-fuel green-methanol operations and an electrical system that captures and stores excess energy for re-use,” Gleerup noted.

The P-class vessels are the result of close cooperation between Cadeler and its key partners on these newbuildings, including COSCO, GustoMSC, NOV, Kongsberg, Huisman, and MAN Energy.