Wind energy – rock dumping
Philly Shipyard has won a contract from Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company, to construct one Jones Act-compliant Subsea Rock Installation Vessel – the first such ship to enter the U.S. market.
The initial award is valued at approximately USD 197 million.
“Over the past several years, we have made a conscious effort to pivot toward a more diversified order backlog in an attempt to grow the Company’s profitability,” said Steinar Nerbovik, President and CEO, Philly Shipyard.
“Philly Shipyard has a long-standing position as the leading U.S. commercial shipyard for tankers and container ships, and we are making inroads into government projects – both new builds and repairs. This win now carves a path into the expanding offshore wind market. This contract is proof that we are executing on our vision and diversifying our market opportunities.”
The Subsea Rock Installation Vessel is designed to carry up to 20,000 MT of rock and shall transport and strategically deposit these rocks to the ocean bottom, laying a foundation for the monopiles which serve as the prevailing support structure for offshore wind turbines.
The ship will have an overall length of 140.5 meters (461 feet), a breadth of 34.1 meters (112 feet), and crew accommodations for 45 people.
The owner will supply the rock placement system and other mission equipment. Delivery for the first vessel is expected in Q4 2024 with the second (if awarded) being delivered in Q4 2025.