Cochin Shipyard Ltd. has started construction of a new hybrid-electric SOV for North Star , which will serve the He Dreiht offshore wind farm off the German coast . This SOV will be equipped with advanced technology to ensure efficient and sustainable performance during its operation at this vast wind farm complex.
The initial steel cutting, which took place on 25 February 2025 at the Cochin shipyard, marks the beginning of this important project. This innovative vessel, which will operate under a charter contract with EnBW, is expected to be ready for operation by the end of 2026 , and will become a key player for the logistics and maintenance of the wind farm.
A hybrid-electric SOV for decarbonisation
The SOV is designed to meet the specific requirements of EnBW and to optimise operation in the He Dreiht offshore. The vessel will feature Voith Schneider electric propulsion (eVSP) , which will improve its efficiency and reduce environmental impact. In addition, it is prepared to use methanol as fuel in the future, a feature that reinforces the commitment to the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
To facilitate maintenance operations, the SOV will feature a height-adjustable motion-compensated gangway and a 3D-compensated crane. These innovations will enable fast, safe and efficient personnel transfers, which is essential given the challenging marine environment.
North Star and its growing presence in Europe
This new SOV joins the Grampian Kestrel, another service operations vessel that North Star has designed and managed for EnBW. This latest project strengthens North Star’s presence in the offshore wind market, particularly in Germany, and demonstrates the company’s ability to manage shipbuilding projects on a global scale.
The first cut of steel is always an exciting moment in the construction phase, and we are pleased to join the construction team in India to celebrate the occasion.
Bruno Bartel, Head of Renewables Europe at North Star, highlighted the achievement.
The SOV will be a key component of the He Dreiht wind farm , which consists of 64 wind turbines, and will help ensure its continued operation for years to come. North Star continues to demonstrate its leadership in building innovative solutions for renewable energy , not only in the UK, but also in international markets.
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Source and photo: North Star
