ABS has issued approval in principle (AiP) to Yantai CIMC Raffles Offshore for its design of a dual-fuel methanol, heavy-duty, offshore wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV).
The WTIV will be capable of transporting and installing the largest wind turbines, capable of producing 16 to 20MW of electricity, and promises to reduce CO2 emissions with its dual-fuel methanol propulsion system. The design features a 3,500t leg encircling crane and a strong, sea-keeping DP system that aligns with ABS class requirements DPS-2.
Rob Langford, ABS VP Global Offshore Wind said: “This is an exciting development for the offshore wind market, which is a key player in the global energy evolution. Support vessels like WTIVs are in short supply, and new builds are being hampered by challenging market dynamics. This design from Yantai promises to meet the need for high-capacity, heavy-duty offshore wind projects.”
Panos Koutsourakis, ABS VP Global Sustainability said: “ABS understands and is deeply involved in supporting clients with alternative fuels as part of their decarbonisation journey. Methanol has emerged as a favourite among new designs as it represents a ‘here-now’ technology rather than a ‘hoped-for.’ We are proud to support Yantai in their sustainable design for offshore wind projects.”
Fu Qiang, Director CIMC Raffles Strategy R&D Centre added: “The vessel is designed for the European market, with a maximum lifting weight of 3,500t and a maximum lifting height of 228m above sea level and can carry seven sets of 14MW or four sets of 20MW wind turbine components. This vessel is equipped with a dual-fuel main engine and hybrid battery system, reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption. Given the complex international market and rising raw material prices, the design offers better economics and stronger competitiveness.”
ABS has developed global standards for offshore wind foundations, both fixed and floating, substations and the unique vessels that support the industry. With more than 70 years of experience in the offshore sector, ABS says it understands the needs of owners and operators to enhance operational efficiencies with sustainable energy solutions. ABS certified the first semisubmersible offshore wind turbine WindFloat I, classed the world’s largest floating wind turbine Windfloat Atlantic and classed Kincardine, the world’s largest floating offshore windfarm at its commercial online date (COD).
Image: Illustration of WTIV design (Credit: Yantai CIMC Raffles Offshore)
