Keel laid for Bibby Marine's first hybrid-electric CSOV

A keel-laying ceremony was held last week for Bibby Marine's first hybrid-electric commissioning service operation vessel (CSOV) at the Armon Shipyard in Vigo, Spain. The event marked the official start of construction for the newbuild.

The vessel will combine methanol engines and battery technology to provide what the company describes as zero local emission support to offshore wind farms. Once operational in 2027, the 6,700-gross-tonne vessel will accommodate up to 120 personnel for offshore deployments lasting up to 30 days.

The ship will have an overall length of approximately 89.6 metres and a beam of 19.8 metres. The design includes an approximately 500-square-metre cargo weather deck and 535 square metres of covered warehouse space.

Propulsion will be provided by two 2,000kW azimuth thrusters and two 1,500kW tunnel bow thrusters. Power will be supplied by two 3,480kW dual-fuel generator sets capable of running on MGO or methanol, supplemented by a 22.4MWh battery pack. The vessel is also equipped for both offshore and shore power charging.