New depths in the offshore wind energy sector

Compared with existing wind turbine installation vessels, and the majority of those being constructed, this vessel can operate in some 45%-deeper waters, while reducing downtime even in extreme storm conditions, thus providing a potentially longer operational window. With a large carrying capacity of up to 12 turbines at a time, it enhances the efficiency of constructing offshore wind farms.

A 75/25 joint venture (JV) company has been formed between Keppel FELS and Seafox respectively, to build and own this $220 million vessel. Seafox has the option of acquiring Keppel’s stake in the JV company.

The KFELS MPSEP, designed by Keppel’s R&D arm, offshore technology development, has the distinctive ability over other existing vessels to install and maintain heavy wind turbine foundations, such as the jacket and tripod types, and especially in deeper waters. In addition to being well-suited for servicing offshore wind farms, it also meets all the stringent operating regulations of the offshore oil & gas industry and can support a wide range of related activities such as accommodation, well intervention, maintenance, construction and decommissioning.

The KFELS MPSEP vessel, to be named Seafox 5, is scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2012 and will be managed and operated by Workfox BV, a member of the Seafox Group.

Combining Keppel’s extensive experience as rig designer and builder, and Seafox’s deep insights as a provider of self-elevating accommodation and maintenance support units in the North Sea, the KFELS MPSEP is set to provide a highly versatile and cost-efficient solution for the offshore energy industry.