Shipping giant NYK has signed a long-term charter agreement for a crew transfer vessel(CTV) to operate offshore Oga, Katagami and Akita. This agreement is with Oga Katagami Akita Offshore Green Energy, a partnership comprising major players in the Japanese energy sector such as JERA, bp Japan, Electric Power Development(J-Power), Tohoku Electric Power and Itochu Corporation.
The charter contract and its adapted European model
The CTV vessel will be built in Kamaishi City by Kosaba Shipbuilding, with a design based on the models used by Northern Offshore Services(NOS), Europe’s largest operator in this category. The vessel will be adapted to local conditions, which will facilitate its integration into the Japanese environment, and at the same time, support the domestic shipbuilding industry.
This vessel will be operated by Japan Offshore Support, a joint venture between NYK and Akita Eisen, based in Akita Prefecture. This company will be responsible for the management and operation of the vessel, as well as the training of local crew, thus strengthening regional maritime capabilities.
The unit will be 28 meters long and 9 meters wide, with a gross tonnage of approximately 145 tons. It will also be designed to facilitate the mobility of technicians and specialized personnel between the shore and the wind platforms.
NYK says this initiative aligns with its strategy to enhance its involvement in offshore wind energy as one of its relevant business areas. In addition to securing a more stable electricity supply for Japan, the project boosts local employment and industrial growth in the Akita region.
Source and photo: NYK Line
