Following the successful prototype testing of its groundbreaking Ocean Charger solution, Seaonics is poised to bring the world’s first offshore charging system for electric Service Operation Vessels (SOVs) to market. This launch comes at a crucial moment, with wind farm developers increasingly seeking sustainable practices to power offshore wind operations.
With the global shift towards carbon emission reduction and greater operational efficiency, Seaonics’ Ocean Charger could transform the industry. Recent high-voltage tests on Rem Offshore‘s diesel-electric hybrid CSOV REM Power have proven the system’s viability. These trials were carried out both at port and offshore, where a charging point, equipped with a cable reel, winch, and control system, was mounted on a wind turbine.
The Ocean Charger is now ready for the market, positioning Seaonics as a leader in offshore sustainable solutions. “Apart from a few improvements, the concept and control system are ready, and the product is available for sale. We’re the first in the market and already in discussions with wind farm owners,” says Bjørnar Huse, Sales Manager Offshore Energy at Seaonics.
Significance and Benefits
The ability to charge vessels offshore, rather than forcing them to return to port, represents a significant leap in sustainable operations. By connecting vessels to the wind farm’s power grid for regular battery charging, the need for additional energy sources is eliminated. This not only conserves time and energy but also dramatically lowers the operational costs of electric SOVs compared to those powered by diesel or alternative fuels.
Huse elaborates, “The operating cost of electric SOVs is much lower because the energy is cheaper and engine maintenance demands are reduced.” A large SOV, carrying 60 people, consumes between 20 to 25 MW hours per day. Charging at 6 MW could provide a full day’s energy in just three to four hours, making the solution highly efficient.
For wind farm developers, the advantages are equally significant. Installing charging points directly on turbines reduces the need for long-distance cruising to reach port, simplifying logistics and enhancing operational efficiency.
Standardized and Customizable for Wind Farms
The Ocean Charger’s standardized design ensures cost-effectiveness by using an industry-standard connector plug. “We used a plug that’s already in use for shore charging cruise ships and hybrid-electric carriers, allowing for faster integration and cost savings,” Huse notes.
The solution’s flexibility means it can be adapted to any turbine and any vessel. The power supplied can be integrated with any vessel’s switchboard and charging voltage. This adaptability is crucial, given that power currents vary across wind parks, necessitating custom solutions.
“The commercial version will need to be tailored for each project,” adds Huse, reflecting the company’s ability to customize configurations based on the specific requirements of each wind farm.
Looking Ahead: Tailored Solutions for the Future
As offshore wind farms continue to expand globally, Seaonics is preparing to tailor its Ocean Charger solution to meet the future needs of wind farm operators. The company is actively engaged in discussions with wind park owners to integrate charging points into turbines and optimize energy transformation aboard vessels.
Huse emphasizes the importance of early cooperation: “For wind farms scheduled for installation in the next two to four years, there is ample time to finalize integration design, fabrication, and installation on newly chartered SOVs or retrofitted existing ones.”
Seaonics is ready to provide detailed cost estimates for project stakeholders. “We can precisely estimate the costs of vessel integration and the installation of turbine charging points. The total project cost will depend on the number of charging points and any customization required to meet the owner’s operational needs,” says Huse.
How It Works: Safe and Efficient Charging
The charging process is designed for safety and efficiency. As the SOV approaches the charging point, a crane automatically grabs the plug and connects it to the vessel’s charging area, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This system ensures quick, precise charging even in harsh sea conditions, maintaining operational efficiency.
During the charging process, the vessel remains on dynamic positioning (DP), but the system is designed with a larger operational footprint to reduce power consumption. The charging cable includes enough slack to allow the vessel to move up to 20 meters without risking damage to the equipment. In the event of a positioning issue, the DP system’s safety protocols will automatically release the cable in a controlled manner, ensuring safety. The system also has two layers of redundancy for emergency release.
Given the high risks of water exposure during offshore operations, the Ocean Charger is equipped with a watertight cover that seals the plug when not in use, safeguarding it from submersion and potential damage. This design feature minimizes the need for costly repairs and extends the lifespan of the charging system.
A Game-Changer for Offshore Wind
With its Ocean Charger solution, Seaonics is setting a new standard for sustainable energy practices in the offshore wind sector. By offering a viable solution for charging vessels directly at sea, the company is helping to reduce emissions, lower operational costs, and improve overall efficiency for wind farm developers and operators.
As the offshore wind industry continues to evolve, Seaonics remains at the forefront, ready to adapt and tailor its technologies to meet the demands of future wind farms. Through innovative solutions like the Ocean Charger, Seaonics is not just enabling greener operations but is also paving the way for the next generation of offshore energy technology.
About SEAONICS
SEAONICS develops advanced handling and lifting solutions designed for intelligent, efficient, and profitable operations. With a focus on innovation, the company is committed to creating future-proof systems that meet high safety and zero-emission standards. SEAONICS attributes its success to close collaboration with industry-leading clients, ensuring their solutions are tailored to meet the demands of the market.
Source Seaonics