Offshore Wind Vessels

Vessel Innovation for Offshore Renewables

ABS plays a key role in the future of offshore renewables by delivering classification services for vessels critical to these operations. Our support encompasses a diverse range of specialized vessels, including wind turbine installation vessels (WTIVs), transport vessels, service operation vessels (SOVs), cable-laying vessels and crew transfer vessels (CTVs).

Supporting an Evolving Global Renewables Industry

As the global offshore industry adapts to the growing demand for renewable energy, ABS leads the way in classing and certifying cutting-edge vessels for the fixed and floating offshore wind sectors.

Key Milestones in the Global Industry

• Seajacks Scylla: Classed by ABS, this was the largest wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV) when delivered in 2015.
• Green Jade: ABS provided classification for Taiwan’s first floating heavy lift offshore installation vessel.
• ECO Edison: The first Jones Act-compliant service operation vessel (SOV) in the U.S., classed by ABS.
• ECO Liberty: ABS classed the first Jones Act-compliant hybrid offshore wind service operation vessel (SOV) in the U.S.
• Charybdis: Classed by ABS, this is the first Jones Act-compliant WTIV built in the U.S. 

ABS actively collaborates with top European and Asian vessel designers to approve innovative designs for offshore wind support vessels by issuing Approval in Principle (AIP) certificates. These collaborations help new designs align with regulatory requirements while meeting the complex demands of offshore operations.

Driving Innovation in Offshore Renewable Technologies

Beyond classing vessels, ABS supports technological advancements that are helping to shape the offshore renewables industry:

• Alternative Energy Integration: Working with solutions such as hydrogen and hybrid power systems to support cleaner, more sustainable energy sources onboard.
• Offshore Access Solutions: Certifying offshore cranes and Walk-to-Work gangways, essential for efficient and safe operation during wind farm construction and maintenance.

With an unwavering commitment to safety and innovation, ABS remains a key player in the global transition to renewable energy, actively supporting offshore technologies that drive efficiency, sustainability and safety.

Why Choose ABS?

Backed by 160 years of maritime heritage, ABS delivers trusted classification, certification and verification services for highly specialized offshore vessels and assets. By forging partnerships with designers, builders and operators, ABS provides tailored solutions that meet the unique challenges of offshore renewables and chart a path for forward-looking technologies.

Webinar: Vessel Innovation to Support the Growing Offshore Wind Market

Demand for wind farm support vessels is expected to increase in order to support planned construction projects for both fixed and floating offshore wind farms. In The International Energy Agency’s (IEA’s) recent report Offshore Wind Outlook, global offshore wind capacity is anticipated to reach 560GW by 2040, totaling $840 billion investment.