Ship Technology Center CTO Gdańsk conducted model tests of the eCSOV

By Marek Grzybowski

Ship Technology Center CTO Gdańsk informed, that  Ship Hydromechanics Center CTO S.A. conducted model tests of the Electric Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (eCSOV), assessing the unit’s performance in calm water and in demanding operational conditions. The tests confirmed the excellent efficiency and stability of the SEA-1629 hull.

The eCSOV represents a breakthrough towards net zero emissions in the offshore wind sector. It is the first vessel of its type to operate in all-electric mode, which significantly contributes to reducing emissions, according to CTO management. With advanced battery systems and modern dual-fuel methanol engines, the vessel sets a new standard for sustainable offshore operations.

Bibby Marine announced a major milestone in its journey toward net-zero emissions: the signing of an agreement with ARMON SHIPYARDS to build the pioneering Electric Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (eCSOV).

The eCSOV will be equipped with the Seaplace Design SEA-1629 hull, a high-performance design specifically designed to ensure operability and safety when approaching offshore wind platforms, even in the most challenging conditions. The initial phase of this design process, conducted in 2024, culminated in a model testing campaign at Centrum Techniki Okrętowej S.A. in Gdańsk, Poland, last summer – informed SeaPlace.

Strength and seaworthiness tests confirmed the exceptional performance of the hull, confirming its readiness to face the challenges of offshore operations and further reinforcing the innovative capabilities of this vessel. Hull testing was conducted in the model basin in Gdańsk.

Bibby Marine has announced the signing of a new shipbuilding contract with shipyard Armon (Located in Vigo, Spain), to build its innovative electric Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (eCSOV),14 January 2025.
The eCSOV will feature a battery system complemented by dual-fuel methanol engines offering alternative green operating solutions. Bibby Marine is working closely with Seaplace ship design on the basic design of the vessel, building on the original concept design, completed by Longitude.
With the capability to operate solely on battery power for a typical full day of operations, the range of the vessel will allow for passage from field to port and return. The vessel is primed for efficient in-field operations, setting a new standard in the offshore wind industry. Integrating digitalisation and AI into the vessel’s design are key to maintaining and improving its efficiently over its life.