DONG Energy has awarded Seacat Services with a contract for the supply of all crew transfer services at its 258MW Burbo Bank Extension project under development in the Irish Sea.
The four-vessel charter contract, with durations of three to 11 months, is the second such agreement signed between Seacat Services and DONG Energy in 2016, following the four-workboat construction support deal for the Race Bank offshore wind farm in April.
Seacat Services’ operations at the Burbo Bank project started on 25 April 2016.
With the offshore construction of Burbo Bank Extension due to commence in May 2016 and complete in Q2 2017, Seacat Services will deploy Seacat Defender, Seacat Volunteer, Seacat Ranger and Seacat Endeavour, to support the installation of turbines and offshore transmission infrastructure.
The four-vessel fleet deployed at Burbo Bank Extension will be operated by a 22-strong Seacat Services crew, supported by a shore-based team.
“Offshore wind continues to create significant opportunities for the UK maritime sector,” said Ian Baylis , Managing Director,Seacat Services.
“Supporting the Burbo Bank Extension project, in combination with the recent Race Bank charters, will create prospects not just for crews and support teams directly involved on the projects, but also for future apprentices and trainees entering a career in offshore wind.”
“With the Round 3 construction boom imminent, these long-term projects are simultaneously helping to sustain the momentum of the industry and preparing us for the next exciting phase of UK offshore wind development.”
Claus Bøjle Møller , Project Director for Burbo Bank Extension, said: “DONG Energy is absolutely committed to investing in the UK and we are delighted to be working with Seacat Services for use of their vessels that operate out of the Isle of Wight.
“Fostering strong domestic supplier relationships is a key part of ensuring that we benefit from the wealth of local expertise in the UK sector.”