Cochin Shipyard Limited has laid the keel for a state-of-the-art hybrid Service Operation Vessel (SOV) for North Star Shipping (Aberdeen) Limited, UK to serve the growing offshore renewable energy segment.
The ceremony was officiated by James Bradford, Chief Technology Officer at North Star Shipping, who laid the keel for the ship in the presence of Michael Reid, Head of Special Projects at North Star Shipping. Jose V J (Director – Finance), Harikrishnan S. (Executive Director – Shipbuilding), Rajesh Gopalakrishnan (Executive Director – Ship repair), and other senior officials from CSL, and representatives from North Star site team were present.
UK-based North Star Shipping is a pioneer in the offshore renewable vessels segment, committed to developing sustainable energy solutions in response to the global movement towards a more environmentally friendly future. The 68- m hybrid-electric SOV is designed in collaboration with VARD AS, Norway. The VARD 4 07 SOV is first of the two SOVs being constructed by CSL for North Star.
The vessels are built under the classification of DNV, equipped with a hybrid electric system powered by lithium-ion batteries, fitted with electric cycloidal propulsion for enhanced manoeuvrability and modern walk to work gangway arrangement enabling safe and efficient personnel transfers in offshore environments.
Once commissioned, this state-of-the-art walk-to-work vessel is set to transform service, maintenance, and operational tasks in the offshore wind sector. Purpose-built to meet the rigorous demands of offshore wind farms, the vessel will serve as a multifunctional platform, combining accommodation, logistics, and maintenance capabilities.
The vessel has the capacity for 54 personnel, including specialized technicians and crew, with high standards of comfort onboard. It has dedicated facilities for wind turbine maintenance, ensuring efficient and safe operations.