Aberdeen-based Vroon Offshore Services (VOS) has entered into a long-term charter agreement for emergency response and rescue vessel (ERRV) services with energy company ScottishPower Renewables.
The awarded contract, which has a value of more than £7 million (US$9 million), will see VOS support the offshore construction of ScottishPower Renewables' East Anglia Two and Three wind farms off the coast of Suffolk, providing on-site ERRV services in the event of an emergency situation.
VOS Traveller, the selected response vessel, will operate out of the Port of Lowestoft.
The ERRV's 24-strong crew will work on a 28-day rotation.
The East Anglia Two and Three offshore wind farms will produce enough electricity to power more than two million homes, according to Ross Ovens, ScottishPower Renewables’ Managing Director for Offshore.
VOS Traveller’s key operational capabilities and ERRV duties will consist of: 24/7 continuous standby; safety cover; and search and rescue support, providing a place of safety within 20 minutes.
The ERRV boasts: specialised recovery equipment including two fast rescue craft, a Dacon scoop and a heavy-duty rescue basket; onboard medical treatment facilities; advanced collision-avoidance surveillance, radio watchkeeping and field logistics support; and offshore environmental monitoring.