Cochin Shipyard Secures €60 Million Hybrid Vessel Order from North Star Shipping for UK Offshore Wind Farm

Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) secures a €60 million contract to build hybrid Service Operation Vessels for North Star Shipping, to be deployed at the East Anglia THREE offshore wind farm.

Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has announced a significant international order from North Star Shipping, a prominent UK-based offshore renewable operator. The contract, valued at €60 million, involves constructing hybrid Service Operation Vessels (SOVs) for Siemens Gamesa. These vessels will support the East Anglia THREE offshore wind farm located off the Suffolk coast in the UK.

This contract also includes an option for North Star Shipping to order two additional vessels in the future. Earlier this year, North Star had already commissioned another hybrid SOV from CSL, reinforcing their partnership.

The 85-meter hybrid SOVs, designed by Norwegian company VARD AS based on the proven 4 19 design, will feature advanced technology tailored for the offshore wind industry. These vessels will be equipped with a fully electric azimuth propulsion system and a 3D motion-compensated gangway system (walk2work). The hybrid propulsion system includes four diesel generator sets and a large lithium battery pack to significantly reduce emissions. 

The vessels, which will be classed with DNV Norway, will have high-standard interiors to accommodate 80 technicians and crew members, meeting DNV comfort ratings and incorporating a Dynamic Positioning System.

Cochin Shipyard is already building two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) for another European client, marking its expanding presence in the renewable energy sector. This new contract with North Star Shipping enhances CSL's reputation in the high-end niche market for offshore renewable energy solutions.

North Star Shipping's Chief Technology Officer, James Bradford, emphasized their choice of CSL for this project due to CSL's proven track record of delivering high-quality vessels on time and within budget. He highlighted CSL's alignment with North Star's vision for sustainable maritime solutions and their commitment to meeting the evolving needs of clients while contributing to a greener future.

Madhu Nair, Chairman and Managing Director of CSL, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership, reiterating CSL's dedication to building high-quality, sustainable maritime products to serve the evolving market needs.

This order signifies a growing global focus on sustainable and green energy solutions, particularly in the offshore renewable energy sector. CSL's engagement in this project showcases its expertise and commitment to contributing positively to the renewable energy industry.