Rolls-Royce design for wind farm vessel

The vessel will support DONG Energy’s wind farm operations and is for a new ship design from Rolls-Royce developed specifically to support operations in shallow waters at offshore windfarms.

Helge Gjerde, Rolls-Royce director offshore and merchant solutions, said: “We are delighted that Østensjø Rederi and DONG Energy have chosen to exercise an option with Astilleros Gondan for a second vessel of our new concept.”

“Developing advanced vessels for the renewable energy sector is a perfect way to make use of our vast offshore experience and diversify our Marine business.”

The wind farm vessel, UT 540 WP, has a high focus on seakeeping capabilities, station keeping performance, improved comfort, safety onboard and reduced fuel consumption.

It will serve as the base for wind turbine technicians while they perform maintain work on offshore windfarms.

A motion compensated gangway system with an adjustable pedestal will be installed to ensure safe operations and optimal uptime.

The first vessel ordered, which was announced back in October 2015, will work on Race Bank Offshore Wind Farm, while the second will work on the Hornsea Project One wind farm, both off the coast of the UK.

Rolls-Royce will supply the diesel electric main machinery, consisting of frequency controlled electric driven azimuth thrusters, super silent mounted transverse thrusters, DP2 dynamic positioning system, power electrical system, deck machinery, and the latest generation Acon automation and control system.