UK Firm Expands Electric Crew Transport Fleet
Tidal Transit, a UK-based crew transport vessel (CTV) operator, has secured funding from HICO Investment Group to enhance its fleet with six new electric CTVs. This initiative addresses the rising demand for zero-emission vessels in offshore wind operations. It also underscores both companies’ commitment to reducing diesel reliance in the maritime sector.
Innovative Fleet Expansion
Headquartered on the North Norfolk coast, Tidal Transit is poised to make a significant impact on the offshore wind industry. The new electric CTVs, known as E-CTVs, represent the world’s first fleet of multi-functional electric crew transport vessels. Leo Hambro, director of Tidal Transit, emphasized the importance of this development, stating that it marks a major milestone in the journey toward electrifying offshore wind operations. The new vessels are expected to be delivered starting in 2026 and will complement Tidal Transit’s existing fleet of electric frontrunner CTVs.
In addition to expanding its fleet, Tidal Transit is leading a groundbreaking diesel-to-electric retrofit project. This initiative, funded by Innovate UK and the UK Department of Transport, demonstrates that existing diesel CTVs can be converted to operate on 100% electric power. The retrofitted vessels will also have the capability to recharge offshore, further promoting sustainability in the industry.
HICO Investment Group, which acquired a stake in Tidal Transit last year, is also expanding its footprint in the offshore sector. Chris Hartnoll, CEO of HICO, highlighted the significance of this fleet expansion, calling it an industry first. He noted that this development signifies a shift in the maritime sector, making large-scale electrification of offshore service vessels an operational reality rather than a distant goal. This milestone is expected to set new standards for sustainability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness across the industry.