UK-based Tidal Transit has ordered two battery-ready crew transfer vessel (CTV) newbuilds from Singapore’s Penguin Shipyard, designed for the offshore wind sector.
The CTVs will be fitted with Volvo Penta IPS30 propulsion – the same as is used in Tidal Transit’s eGinny 100 per cent electric retrofit project – for its fuel efficiency and readiness for battery-powered retrofit, the company said.
The new 24-passenger Incat Crowther UK-designed WindFlex-27 model was specifically chosen to strengthen immediate supply ahead of the delivery of new electric CTVs in 2026, according to Tidal Transit.
“Offshore wind requires high-specification crew transport to support its rapid expansion and journey towards decarbonisation. We’re keeping the electric dream alive by providing the industry with fuel efficient, retrofittable frontrunner CTVs right now, while at the same time committing to the delivery of zero-carbon, battery-powered vessels in the near future “, said Leo Hambro , commercial director at Tidal Transit.
In addition, Tidal Transit secured the first charter for its newest vessel, Arabella Jane . The WindFlex 27 CTV with Quad IPS started work supporting operations at Ørsted’s Hornsea Two, the world’s largest offshore wind farm.
The 1.3 GW Hornsea Two features 165 Siemens Gamesa 8 MW wind turbines which can power over 1.4 million UK homes with clean energy.
The first turbine was installed at the end of May 2021 and the 1,320 MW wind farm generated its first power at the end of that year.