US-built service operation vessel for Equinor’s Empire Wind project launched

The service operation vessel (SOV) was built to service Equinor’s Empire Wind offshore windfarm.

Equinor president renewables Americas Molly Morris said, “ECO Liberty showcases the positive impact Empire Wind is having on the American economy.

“Equinor is grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Louisiana’s world-class shipbuilding industry as we support the Trump Administration’s efforts to expand US vessel manufacturing. This vessel reflects how offshore wind can create durable, high-quality jobs while building out a homegrown energy supply chain.” 

The 80-m hybrid-powered ECO Liberty is due to depart soon for New York, where it will be homeported at the South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, where more than 2,000 workers have been put to work constructing a next-generation staging facility, O&M base and control centre for Empire Wind.

ECO Liberty will be deployed to support ongoing construction in the lease area and eventually serve as the base for wind turbine technicians working on the Empire Wind windfarm.

Including ECO Liberty, seven new US-flagged vessels will be added to the Jones Act-compliant fleet because of Empire Wind.