Offshore shore wind market consultancy 4C Offshore has researched and mapped the development of the European Wind Farm Service Vessel fleet. The sector has grown rapidly over the last five years providing more sophisticated vessels in response to client requests and the needs of personnel being transported offshore.
One finding highlighted in the research shows that 57 vessels are currently either under construction or on order. This will increase the size of the current operational European fleet by around 18% by the end of 2013.
The vessels entering service were commissioned during a period when developers were optimistic about progress. However, changes in government subsidies, grid connection problems and other issues have resulted in delays to development potentially reducing the need for vessels. Also, during this period of growth, the UK has dominated the market where sites appear to have a high demand for WFSVs. As offshore wind development increases in other countries there is no guarantee that demand will be at the same level. It is not yet clear as to whether the existing vessels and the new builds combined will be sufficient to meet demand or will result in an oversupply.
Sue Crothers, 4C Offshore said: “Our research shows operators and vessel owners responded rapidly and positively to market demand, investing in new designs with increased specification to provide a competitive service to their clients. In one example on London Array 1 we saw 30 WFSVs operating in November alone. Is this the trend? Will this level of support be seen on other sites?
The research is now available on subscription with regular updates to assist those involved with business development, strategic planning and investment.”
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Press release, February 05, 2013; Image: Arklow Marine Services