IWS Fleet AS (IWS) has entered into shipbuilding contracts for the construction of two additional Walk-to-Work Commissioning Service Operations Vessels (CSOV) with China Merchants Industry Holdings.
The two newbuilds are scheduled for delivery in Q2 2025.
After delivery, IWS will have a fleet of six identical Skywalker class vessels designed specifically to support commissioning works during the construction of wind farms.
They will also support operations and maintenance during the lifetime of offshore wind farms, bottom fixed and floating.
Head of IWS Fleet Christopher Andersen Heidenreich said: “We are pleased to order two additional CSOVs and increase our fleet to six identical sister vessels.
“Our fleet will be uniquely positioned for a strong and growing offshore wind market with the first vessel commencing the charter contract to the Dogger Bank Offshore Wind Farm later this year.”
These hybrid powered vessels will be among the first vessels in the industry capable of zero-emission operations.
The vessels are designed by Kongsberg Maritime and equipped with the latest generation fully compensated gangway and 3d crane, IWS said.
The vessels have several “industry firsts”, such as the largest battery pack with solar panels for additional charging, hull and propulsion design increasing operability and reducing emissions, and an energy consumption estimated to be 20% lower than comparable CSOVs currently under construction, it added.
Furthermore, IWS said the vessels are the first in the industry to have the “DNV SILENT” notation, which focuses on minimising the impact on marine life below water.
IWS has also secured options for an additional two Skywalker class CSOVs from the shipyard CMI.