Eneti has confirmed it has entered into a binding agreement for the construction of a turbine installation vessel and is in advanced discussions with American shipbuilders for the construction of a Jones Act-compliant unit
The company has entered into a binding agreement with Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering for the construction of one turbine installation vessel. The contract price is US$330M. The vessel will be delivered in early Q3 2024. In addition, the company holds an option to construct an additional vessel at the same price, net of currency adjustments.
The vessel is an NG-16000X design by GustoMSC, part of National Oilwell Varco, and includes a 2,600-tonne leg-encircling crane from Huisman Equipment in the Netherlands.
The vessel will be capable of installing 20-MW turbines in water depths of up to 65 m and can be adapted to operate on fuels such as LNG or ammonia.
Eneti is discussing the Jones Act vessel with several American yards. This vessel would be constructed, financed, and operated by American citizens in compliance with the Jones Act, to address heightened demand for transportation and installation capacity in the US.
Eneti chairman and chief executive Emanuele Lauro said, “Since last August, we have been unequivocal about our intention to enter the wind turbine installation sector.
“The contract with Daewoo is a milestone for the company, as it reflects months of customer engagement and collaboration with partners, both old and new. The vessel will have the advanced lifting capabilities and energy efficiency that offshore wind developers require, not just today but well into the next decade.
“In addition, we are laying the groundwork for a Jones Act-compliant vessel to address the American market for offshore wind. The growing calls for American-constructed and American-operated assets are loud and clear.
“We are intent on providing a state-of-the-art solution to our customers so that they can comply with the Jones Act as they bring renewable energy to the US.”
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