Esvagt has signed joint venture agreements with US maritime logistics company Crowley to support purpose-built, Jones Act vessel development and availability for US offshore wind production.
The new agreements, which follow the original agreement between the companies in 2021, will support joint efforts for service operation vessels (SOVs).
The latest additions focus on the financial and development efficiencies in the vessel development process between the companies, the partners said.
The JV has been set up to develop a best-in-class design and deliver wind-dedicated, US flag SOV vessels.
Consistent with the requirements of the Jones Act, Crowley will own and operate the vessels crewed with its US mariners, while Crowley and Esvagt will share in the economics of the venture.
Crowley new energy division vice president Jeff Andreini said: “The enhancement of this venture will help bring these important service operation vessels to the US offshore wind market to meet the nation’s clean, sustainable energy demands.
“As we increase our organisations’ shared capabilities, we will help propel the continued growth of maritime and logistics solutions to help solve the nation’s vessel capacity demands in a responsible and sustainable way.”
Esvagt chief executive Peter Lytzen said: “Esvagt is proud to be an active player supporting our customers in the green transition.
“Crowley and Esvagt share an ambition for a sustainable future, and we’re committed to take the lead in decarbonizing the maritime industry.
“In Esvagt we’re delighted and proud to be a first mover of emission free SOV’s and have ordered the world’s first e-Methanol driven SOV to be delivered in 2024.
“Only through innovative solutions and commercial courage it is possible to overcome the threatening climate change.”