Friede & Goldman, COSCO collaborate on new-generation turbine installation vessels

The companies said their initial efforts will focus on bringing the ‘WindSetter 156 CHI’ vessel design to market.

The design incorporates Friede & Goldman proprietary ‘BargeRack’ technology, which the company claims gives vessel owners greater flexibility.

The BargeRack allows vessel owners to utilise feeder barges and existing infrastructure in the US market. And, since the BargeRack is removable, vessel owners can easily operate the same vessels in other parts of the world.

The collaboration brings an experienced wind turbine installation vessel builder in COSCO, and a seasoned jack-up designer in Friede & Goldman. The WindSetter 156 CHI boasts what the companies describe as ‘industry-leading payload capabilities’ and has been developed in conjunction with equipment vendors to ensure a future-proof design capable of installing turbines larger than 20 MW.

In early May 2022, it was confirmed that American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) had granted approval in principle (AiP) for a design for a wind turbine installation vessel developed by Friede & Goldman and COSCO.

The design is equipped with F&G’s BargeRack feeder barge system to support Jones Act-compliant operations in the US. BargeRack already has AiP from ABS.

ABS head of global offshore wind Greg Lennon said, “This is a versatile design capable of navigating port constraints and supporting offshore wind markets all over the world. ABS is pleased to be able to add this project to the list of advanced new vessels we are supporting.”