First SOV with e-methanol propulsion starts sea trials

The pioneering vessel has dual-fuel engines capable of operating on e-methanol produced from biogenic carbon or other sources of green methanol and batteries in a hybrid arrangement, which will reduce its emissions by approximately 4,500 tonnes of CO2 a year compared with a conventional vessel.

The 93-m long vessel, built for Danish owner Esvagt, will provide accommodation for 124 people and was built according to DNV classification rules and will sail under the Danish flag. 

Once in service, the SOV will support the world’s largest offshore windfarm, Hornsea 2, in the UK sector of the North Sea. A contract for the vessel was agreed by Esvagt and the offshore wind developer in April 2022. In July 2023, the companies also agreed a deal for a second e-methanol powered SOV.

The SOV is designed to be a highly efficient workspace and will provide the safe transfer of windfarm technicians via a motion-compensated gangway and transfer boats. It will also be fitted with a crane to lift heavy spare parts.