BMT design under construction for Akita and Noshiro windfarm

BMT designed the 27-m vessel specifically for operations and maintenance on the Akita and Noshiro offshore windfarms, in the Akita Prefecture region of Japan.

The windfarm is the first commercial offshore wind project in the country, with an expected combined output of 139 MW.

BMT undertook metocean data studies which have enabled the vessel design to be tailored to local conditions, ensuring that its manoeuvrability, performance and the redundancy built into the design are optimised for its operational environment.

The design is a fully classed vessel, built to Class NK rules. Fitted with BMT’s patented ‘Active Fender System,’ it is capable of carrying 12 windfarm technicians and three crew.

Powered by four engines with four waterjets, the vessel will provide good fuel efficiency during different modes of operation as well as excellent redundancy.

The CTV will transit at up to 25 knots with a deadweight of 30 tonnes. It is due to be launched in December 2020, with the delivery to the operator in early 2021.

BMT said the vessel is the first of two designed for operation in Japan.