VARD awarded Approval in Principle by LR for two methanol Vessel

Lloyd’s Register recently granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to VARD for its innovative methanol fueling system. This approval is for two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) being built for North Star, a major support vessel operator from Scotland. These ships will be among the first in the offshore wind industry designed to run on green fuels, marking a big step toward cleaner, more sustainable maritime operations.

Building Vessels for a Greener Future

The CSOVs are based on the VARD 422 design, tailored specifically for the offshore wind sector. This project is VARD’s first foray into creating methanol-ready vessels. Since signing the contract in May 2023, VARD has worked closely with Lloyd’s Register to make sure the ships can switch to methanol fuel in the future. The approval process involved detailed risk assessments and design tweaks to ensure the safe use of methanol as fuel.

These vessels are already equipped to transition to methanol when engine manufacturers release the necessary conversion kits. This forward-thinking design positions the VARD 422 vessels as leaders in the offshore wind sector, demonstrating a strong commitment to cutting carbon emissions.

A Collaborative Effort

Thomas Brathaug, Vice President of Project Management at VARD, highlighted the importance of this milestone. He said, “This is an important step for VARD in our continuous work to lead the technological and green transition.” This achievement not only strengthens VARD’s market position but also reflects the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions in the maritime industry.

North Star’s Chief Technology Officer, James Bradford, echoed this sentiment. He stressed the value of methanol-ready vessels in preparing for a low-carbon future. “Our commitment to methanol-ready vessels is essential in future-proofing North Star’s fleet for the low-carbon transition in offshore wind operations,” Bradford said. This strategy boosts both efficiency and sustainability, making North Star a leader in green offshore operations.

Chartwell Marine and VARD join forces to deliver original ‘Midi-SOV’ design for offshore wind

Advanced Offshore Wind Support

The VARD 422 CSOVs are designed as versatile platforms to support offshore wind farms. They excel in onboard logistics, walk-to-work access, accommodation, and operational performance. Collaborating closely with Vard Design in Norway, these vessels meet top standards in both functionality and sustainability.

Each CSOV will feature state-of-the-art technology from Vard Electro’s SeaQ portfolio, ensuring advanced power management, navigation, and communication systems. These innovations will lower emissions, reduce fuel consumption, and improve overall efficiency. Additionally, a high-performance daughter craft will be onboard, providing flexibility for various missions.

At 95 meters long and 19.5 meters wide, the vessels will reach a maximum speed of 14 knots and accommodate 111 people across 95 cabins. This design guarantees comfort for crew members while ensuring readiness for the shift to methanol fuel.

A Sustainable Maritime Future

With Lloyd’s Register’s approval, VARD and North Star are setting new standards in maritime sustainability. These methanol-ready CSOVs are not just vessels—they are a symbol of the shipping industry’s dedication to a cleaner, greener future. By prioritizing innovative technology and sustainable design, VARD and North Star are paving the way for a new era in offshore wind support.