Wind Energy Construction signs for Vard newbuilds

Fincantieri-controlled Norwegian shipbuilder Vard has secured a contract from compatriot Wind Energy Construction for up to two newbuild energy construction vessels (ECVs).

The Norwegian outfit linked to Ålesund-based Norwind Offshore and its founders and owners has signed for one firm vessel, delivering in the second quarter of 2027 and one optional unit which can be declared later this year.

Financial terms were not disclosed for the sixth firm vessel the owners of Norwind Offshore have contracted with Vard since October 2021, all of which were commissioning service operations vessels (CSOVs).

The so-called ECV will be of VARD 3 11 design, tailor-made for the offshore wind and subsea market, including inspection, maintenance and repair of pipes, and construction and installation of infrastructure above and below sea level. It will be Vard’s first construction vessel with a motion-compensated gangway permanently installed.

“The concept builds on vessels within the construction market which we have previously built with VARD, and we feel confident that this will play an important role in the development of, among other things, offshore wind in the coming years,” said Svein Leon Aure, CEO at Norwind Offshore.

The 111.5-m-long vessel will be built, outfitted, commissioned and delivered from Vard Vung Tau in Vietnam