Modulifts custom design solutions are the perfect answer for complex lifts

Thursday, 26th November 2020

Modulift, well known in the industry for its popular modular design spreader beams and frames, has seen its orders for custom-designed lifting solutions increase substantially since the beginning of the year, and there are no signs of that pace slowing down.

This is great news for the global below-the-hook manufacturer and its team of in-house engineers.

As the demand for innovation enquiries increases across the industry, with over 150 years of experience in that one team alone, Modulift are quick to turn their knowledge into innovative solutions for their customers.

Safety & Speed of delivery is at the core of their business, as turnaround times are an important service for their customers.

Efficient processes

Modulift have been working hard to improve their already streamlined processes as their teams of experts, which include Sales, Engineering, and Manufacturing, are now all under one roof in their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. This has enabled them to fulfil complex orders within as little as 3 weeks, beginning at the initial enquiry with detailed discussions to fully understand the clients lifting requirements, right through to the design, manufacture, painting and despatch.

Communication is key

Clear and effective communication from the initial enquiry stage has always been a major strength to Modulift’s customer service approach, and this continues to prove invaluable when designing the right lifting solution, as well as being a cost-effective option.

Harshal Kulkarni, Engineering Manager at Modulift, said: “Our custom design solutions are being used across the whole spectrum of the lifting industry for a wide variety of complex lifts. We have also seen an increased amount of lifts requiring a low height frame solution requiring adjustability biaxially and performing as multifunctional lifting tools in lifting and spreader configurations. Whilst we have existing off-the-shelf products which include the popular Modulift MOD AML and our Modulift CMOD series, matching both requirements, we have found that a custom-designed product can often be the best solution for lifts like these. We have also been engaged in customising our standard products to suit customer requirements in the most cost-effective manner too’.

> Lifting Equipment

Valeport Strengthens Senior Team

Thursday, 26th November 2020

Valeport has strengthened its senior management team with the appointment of a Head of Marketing, as it targets market leadership in the environmental sensors sector.

The internal appointment of former marketing manager, Guy Frankland, to Head of Marketing marks the latest step in the strategic growth plans for Valeport – the UK’s leading oceanographic, hydrographic and hydrometric instrument manufacturer.

With over 20 years experience in strategy, brand and digital marketing, Guy joined Valeport in 2018 and has been responsible for overseeing a comprehensive refresh of the brand that has served the subsea sector for over fifty years, supporting Valeport’s expansion into new markets and delivering new products to customers across a large number of sectors.

Valeport Managing Director Matt Quartley, said: “Guy has been fundamental in helping us shape the business in recent years and appointing someone of Guy’s calibre to our senior team is a key part to helping us continue to implement our plans for Valeport’s growth moving forward.”

Valeport technology is selected by leading subsea, hydrographic, hydrometric, metrological & positioning, oceanographic, ports, harbours & dredging, renewable energy and scientific research organisations worldwide.

Hydrographic & Oceanographic Equipment

Who Are Valeport

Valeport – UK Marine Instrumentation Specialists

Valeport (now part of Teledyne) is a UK-based manufacturer of oceanographic, hydrographic, and hydrometric instrumentation. Established in 1969, the company has built a strong global reputation for designing and producing high-quality sensors, profilers, and instruments used in environmental monitoring, marine surveying, water measurement, and scientific research.

What They Do

Products & Applications
Valeport develops a wide array of instrument types, including CTD profilers (which measure Conductivity, Temperature, Depth), sound velocity sensors, tide gauges, current meters, environmental sensors, and oceanographic & hydrographic survey instrumentation. Their products are grouped by application (e.g. coastal, inland, offshore), by parameter (temperature, salinity, turbidity etc.), or by product type.
Featured Technology
Some of their latest offerings include the SWiFT Deep CTD profiler capable of operations to 6,000 m depth; SWiFT CTDplus Turbidity which blends CTD measurements plus turbidity monitoring; Bathy2, a modern bathymetric measurement instrument; and the uvSVX, which provides sound velocity, temperature, and pressure with calculated salinity and density.
Support & Calibration
Valeport provides support services including calibration, warranty, repairs, and returns. Their instruments also come with rigorous environmental and batch testing and a 3-year limited warranty, which can be extended with regular servicing.

Industry Uses

Valeport’s instruments are used broadly in sectors such as:

Environmental monitoring (e.g. water quality, climate studies)
Marine surveys (bathymetry, seafloor mapping)
Renewable energy (site assessment for offshore wind, tidal)
Ports, harbours, and dredging (depth & current monitoring)
Civil engineering where hydrometric and oceanographic data is needed.

Other Key Points

Quality & Warranty: Instruments are environmentally batch-tested; the standard warranty is three years, extendable with service.
Corporate Responsibility: Valeport emphasises environmental stewardship: its site includes policies around net zero journey, seagrass conservation, and corporate responsibility.
Global Reach & Reputation: Though UK-based (Totnes, Devon), Valeport serves customers worldwide. Its products are respected for precision, reliability, and robustness in challenging marine / ocean environments.

Herman Sr. Selects Sea Machine`s SM200 Wireless Remote Helm System to Enhance Offshore Tug Operations

Thursday, 26th November 2020

(Barendrecht, The Netherlands; November 24, 2020) – Boston-based Sea Machines Robotics, a leading developer of autonomous command and remote-helm control systems, announces today that Herman Sr. BV , a Netherlands-based tug and workboat company, will add a Sea Machines’ SM200 wireless, remote-helm control system to one of its Shoalbuster tugboats, the 23.35-meter Teddy, for the purposes of increasing productivity and operational safety during offshore operations. The SM200 provides wireless helm and propulsion control, as well as remote control of auxiliaries and payload equipment (including pumps, winches, anchor windlasses and more), freeing mariners from the wheelhouse to conduct operations from any location that offers the greatest visibility and safety. Sea Machines empowers the pilot to be in full control of the tugboat and on-board payloads with a direct local view of the task, as compared to conventional methods that often rely on signals relayed from another crew member to the wheelhouse.

Herman Sr. operates Teddy in offshore waters for a variety of marine projects, from towing and cable pulling to mooring and dredge support.

“No longer bound to a fixed control station, our crew will use Sea Machines’ wireless helm to monitor operations from the tugboat’s upper decks or wherever visibility is greatest, a valuable capability that increases both productivity and safety,” said Herman Sr.’s Erwin van Dodewaard, operations manager. “This system is intuitive to use and, once installed, will be valuable to our crews as they operate our vessel Teddy during challenging projects, such as large and overweight offshore tows.”

“Improving visibility and at-sea safety is a game-changer for any marine operator, but it is especially true for Herman Sr., which operates in challenging offshore conditions that include reduced visibility, waves and weather,” said Sea Machines’ Frank Relou, European business development manager. “Working conditions that fall into the ‘dull, dirty and dangerous’ category are ideally suited for our systems, as they support crews with new, innovative capabilities that deliver greater productivity, reliability and safety. We look forward to delivering the SM200 to Herman Sr. and the crew aboard Teddy.”

Earlier this year, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) approved the SM200 for installation aboard an articulated tug-barge (ATB) class of U.S.- flag tugboats. An industry first in wireless vessel control, the two bodies granted their approvals after an exhaustive review of Sea Machines’ technology and the SM200’s applications aboard these tugs, deeming the system satisfactory for shipboard installation and trials.

Sea Machines’ SM Series of products, which includes both the SM200 and SM300, provides marine operators a new era of remote, task-driven, computer-guided vessel control, bringing advanced autonomy within reach for small- and large-scale operations. SM products are ideally suited for existing or new-build commercial vessels, including fireboats, commercial survey workboats, spill-response vessels, security/patrol/search-and-rescue craft, offshore wind support vessels, aquaculture workboats and others.

> Tug Boats

Cruise still counts The SMS Group benefits from port calls in Southampton total service offering and ride on squads help drive revenues

Tuesday, 24th November 2020

The SMS Group relocated their Southampton base just eight weeks ago; the business has proudly become the only ship repairer based within the Port of Southampton.

Its ‘total service’ offering has helped drive Cruise ship revenues even in these challenging times; supporting a dozen vessels in one month.

The SMS Group has an enviable reputation as specialists in ship repair, marine engineering and major fabrication projects in the Commercial Marine, Defence, Cruise and Superyachts sectors.

The business has recently moved to Western Avenue, within ABP Southampton’s footprint adjacent the King George V drydock. The move has helped ensure Cruise related revenue.
Nicholas Warren, the firm’s Commercial Director, comments: “Cruise is so important to our business.

“Dan Lockyer and his team lead our fit out and marine refurbishment business. Ben Rowe and Dave Chaffers support the ships’ engineering requirements and from the same site in Southampton our sister company Global Services manages the vessels’ procurement and supplies need.”

He goes on to say: “The provision of ‘Ride On Squads’ across both our engineering business and out fit business has enabled us to capitalise on our unique position in Southampton.
“Short, sharp port calls have allowed us to demob and remob quickly, and efficiently, to the benefit of all our Cruise customers; and our focus on longer-term relationships and the ‘life time’ value of customers ensures that we price correctly and deliver the very best service.
“This month alone we’ve attended over a dozen ships within the port.”

Dan Lockyer, Head of Interiors, comments: “Changes in the Cruise sector have presented an obvious challenge, but we, in-line with the Carnival Corporation chief executive Arnold Donald, remain ‘cautiously optimistic’.

“Our pipeline is very strong, our network growing daily, and perhaps more importantly our forward order book looks genuinely healthy.
“A big win for us has been the ‘Ride On Squads’. They’re lower revenue but allow our customers to make the most of both their budgets and capacity onboard.

“Our short-term future is focussed on smaller packages of work, but very soon we hope to see a meaningful recovery; both ‘universal testing’ and vaccines will ensure the industry recovers quickly.”

The SMS Group will be investing in both the fabrication workshop and the new mechanical workshop. The site will also benefit from new signage and further investment in the offices.

The additional capacity will be added to the footprint for the fit out and marine refurbishment team too.

The location will improve the company’s quayside presence and its mobility with the city’s port infrastructure.

> Ship Repairers

Van Oord selects KENC Engineering for design lifting tool Saint-Brieuc offshore wind farm

Wednesday, 18th November 2020

On the 12th of November leading marine contractor Van Oord, awarded Breman Machinery and KENC Engineering with the assignment to design and build a casing lifting adapter (CLA). The lifting tool supports the installation of 190 pin piles at Saint-Brieuc offshore wind farm.

The CLA can handle 275 tonnes and is designed to connect with the temporary casing used during drilling operations. It is equipped with redundant safety pin connections and can be operated remotely. The lifting tool includes a sub-sea IP camera to provide real-time images during fitting operations. In early February 2021 the CLA will be delivered to Van Oord.

Eric Buining, manager director at KENC: “This is a great award
for KENC Engineering, we are delighted to have been selected
by Van Oord to contribute with our expertise and look forward
to a smooth and successful project!”.

Who is Van Ord?

Van Oord: Leading Global Marine Contractor

Van Oord is a Dutch family-owned company with over 155 years of experience as an international marine contractor. Specialising in dredging, land reclamation, offshore energy infrastructure, and marine construction, Van Oord operates worldwide, delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to complex maritime challenges. The company is headquartered in Rotterdam, Netherlands, and employs approximately 5,800 people globally.

Core Services and Expertise

Van Oord’s core services encompass dredging, land reclamation, and the construction of offshore energy infrastructure, including offshore wind farms. The company utilises advanced technologies and a modern fleet of specialised vessels to execute large-scale projects efficiently and safely. Their expertise extends to coastal protection, port development, and the creation of artificial islands, contributing significantly to urban development and environmental sustainability.

Notable Projects

Throughout its history, Van Oord has undertaken numerous landmark projects that showcase its capabilities and commitment to excellence. Some of the notable projects include the construction of the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, the expansion of the Port of Rotterdam, and the development of offshore wind farms such as Gemini in the North Sea. These projects highlight Van Oord’s role in shaping global maritime infrastructure and advancing renewable energy initiatives.

Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

Innovation and sustainability are at the heart of Van Oord’s operations. The company invests in research and development to enhance the efficiency and environmental performance of its projects. By adopting cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, Van Oord aims to minimise its ecological footprint and contribute to the global transition towards renewable energy sources.

Global Presence and Future Outlook

With a presence in over 50 countries, Van Oord continues to expand its reach and capabilities. The company’s strategic focus on offshore wind energy positions it as a key player in the renewable energy sector. As the demand for sustainable infrastructure grows, Van Oord remains dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of its clients and the environment.

SMM DIGITAL: Looking Forward To Seeing You Online

Tuesday, 17th November 2020

SMM, the leading international maritime trade fair, will not be held as a hybrid event on Hamburg’s exhibition campus in February 2021 as originally planned. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hamburg Messe und Congress is instead organising a purely digital event for the maritime community, SMM DIGITAL – The Maritime Business Hub, as a virtual meeting place. Exhibitors and customers from around the world will be able to discuss today’s and tomorrow’s maritime challenges online, and follow conferences featuring top-ranking experts.

Hamburg, 04/11/2020 – Amid soaring infection numbers and waning hopes for a swift return to normal life, the second COVID-19 infection wave is maintaining a firm grip on the world, with significant consequences for the trade fair industry.

In the given circumstances, events without physical presence are preferable. In December 2020, WindEnergy Hamburg will be the first digital trade fair launched by Hamburg Messe und Congress.

Its example will be followed by SMM, the leading international maritime trade fair, in February 2021: “After close consultations with the exhibition committee and government institutions, we have decided to host SMM 2021 as a purely digital event.

The progress of the coronavirus pandemic and the resulting restrictions have rendered it impossible to come up with a reliable plan for a physical trade fair,” said Bernd Aufderheide, President and CEO of Hamburg Messe und Congress GmbH. “By making this timely decision in favour of a digital SMM, we provide our exhibitors and visitors with a sound basis for planning while giving them an idea how they will be able to network successfully in February 2021 despite the pandemic.

What is clear right now is that the experiences we are gathering as an event organiser today will have a positive effect on future physical events. By leveraging various digital services we will be able further to increase the international scope of our trade fairs and provide our customers with substantial added value.”

New Maritime Business Hub

The SMM team is working full steam on creating formats that will bring together the maritime community digitally from 2 to 5 February 2021.

The core component is a newly-developed Maritime Business Hub: This powerful platform will enable international exhibitors to present themselves online and interact with potential customers while avoiding the personal contact that is unavoidable at a physical exhibition stand.

Exhibitors may choose among several digital packages that differ in scope and range of services. Packages may be booked through the SMM website. “Of course, after all those months of social distancing we were all looking forward to a physical or hybrid SMM. However, the current development of the pandemic leaves a digital SMM as the only option.

I am therefore excited that over the past months we have been able to combine our forces and develop a digital version of SMM 2021 for the maritime community,” said Claus Ulrich Selbach, Business Unit Director – Maritime and Technology Fairs & Exhibitions at Hamburg Messe und Congress GmbH.

The new digital platform will allow SMM participants to network, educate themselves, and share information about innovative products as well as industry news, and to do so even beyond the four-day event in February 2021. “The platform will remain active until SMM 2022. This means our exhibitors and partners can present themselves continuously until the next physical gathering, and intensify their business networks by utilising our large database,” said Selbach. Furthermore, the platform will provide the maritime community with current industry news and deliver special events on specific topics on a regular basis, significantly expanding the traditional services offered by SMM.

Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV GL – Maritime appreciates the positive aspects of the current situation: “The pandemic has demonstrated that so much can be achieved through digital means and that the maritime industry is more than capable of adapting to new ways of working. During these very challenging times, more than ever before safety must be at the forefront of every decision we make. I am therefore pleased that SMM has shown the foresight and sound judgment to move next year’s SMM onto a digital platform,” said Ørbeck-Nilssen.

“As COVID-19 puts live events on hold, we very much look forward to participating in Digital SMM,” stressed Sean Fernback, President, Wärtsilä Voyage. “A maritime phenomenon not to be missed, I’m sure the virtual experience will also surpass expectations to reach die-hard and new audiences like never before.”

Living the motto

“Driving The Maritime Transition”: The motto of SMM 2021 is not only reflected by digital exhibitor presentations and the content of the expert conferences featuring top-ranking panellists, such as the Maritime Future Summit. Participation itself has transformed digitally, as well: From 2 until 5 February 2021, visitors can attend SMM Digital simply with the click of a mouse button. Furthermore, all items on the agenda recorded as video streams will be available for viewing online after the end of SMM 2021.

Castoldi Waterjets integrated with Zipwake interceptors for maximum efficiency and performance

Wednesday, 11th November 2020

Jet tender and waterjet expert Castoldi is no stranger to cutting edge technology. Now thanks to SAIM, Zipwake distributor in Italy, it has entered into collaboration with the Swedish top interceptor manufacturer to make its waterjets the best on the market for efficiency and performance.

The collaboration with SAIM, the Italian distributor for Zipwake interceptors, enables Castoldi Turbodrive 490HCT and Turbodrive 600 HCT waterjets to arrive readily equipped with the latest generation interceptors.

Giacomo Castoldi, General Manager, Castoldi said “This collaboration brings two companies together both with a reputation for performance and efficiency with a high standard of design and engineering. Integrating the Zipwake interceptor provides a superior product and greater options for our customers.”

Marco Donà, CEO of SAIM commented “we are proud to provide Castoldi with Zipwake interceptors, we have been distributing since long-time on the Italian market. The decision of joining our experience together developed very quickly and confirms Saim ongoing interest in working with reliable partners. We are sure Zipwake will be able to satisfy a number of requirements for Castoldi customers”.

Why waterjets are superior

One of the primary reasons for using a waterjet propulsion system is to improve the performance of the vessel. The main job of the interceptor is to modify the trim of the boat in order to navigate in a more effective way according to the speed of the vessel and the sea-state.

The waterjet propulsions are often installed in twin or triple configuration, so a large portion of the hull is occupied by the waterjet itself, often leaving little room for other devices. Castoldi’s approach to direct mounting on the body of the waterjet guarantees the possibility of installing two interceptors of large dimensions per waterjet, leaving the transom of the boat free for the installation of other items. The transom position of the waterjets is generally selected as the most efficient for the best thrust: Often this position corresponds to the most effective position for the interceptors too.

The benefits of integrated interceptors

When the interceptors are integrated on the waterjet, there are great advantages for the installation on the boat since no additional room is required on the transom and no additional holes need to be drilled for the cables. In addition, the shipyard does not have the worry of sourcing and installing the interceptors itself.

Using the interceptors in manual or automatic mode, it is possible to improve the comfort on-board depending on the sea-state, to look for the best speed and to get the best efficiency out of the journey, thus optimising fuel consumption and emissions.

Castoldi is already known for being the only manufacturer to fit its waterjets with an integrated gearbox. Because it also builds tenders, it also has the expertise and know-how which it can pass on to other boatbuilders and equipment installers. The integration of the interceptors adds another important benefit to Castoldi’s waterjets, offering high performance features maintaining a very compact design while simplifying the installation process.

Castoldi’s competitive edge

The company says its edge in the market is due to its waterjet’s many advanced exclusive features. Much more than a simple pump, it is a complete, integrated marine propulsion system. The Castoldi waterjet drive is very light due to the aluminium alloy construction of its principle parts. The gearbox is integrated in the unit therefore the engine need not be provided with a marine transmission.

Every Castoldi waterjet drive is equipped and delivered in a single module which includes a propulsion system with water intake, duct, steering and reversing devices, with top quality equipment required for its installation, interconnection and control, to ensure the best performance. This gives high efficiency at medium to high speeds (25-60 knots).

The Castoldi waterjet may be disassembled and accessed for inspection in just a few seconds, simply by removing the rear part. Longer service life is achieved through rugged construction and full protection against corrosion.

Forward thinking the market

The reason behind offering interceptors in addition to its waterjet offering is that in the high-performance professional market, which is mainly where Castoldi operates, interceptors are often used. Having them readily integrated in the propulsion can be great solution for both the vessel designers and the shipyards.

So, the waterjet manufacturer is listening to its customers and expanding its offering to the market.

Kenc reveals new automatic boat landing systems

Monday, 9th November 2020

On the 9th of November 2020, KENC Engineering revealed two new automatic boat landing systems (ABLS). The ABLS provides a safe transfer between a CTV and large vessels and is now available in two configurations.

The product launch is a follow-up on a successful delivery last year when KENC designed, fabricated and delivered a thirteen-meter boat landing system for Van Oord. Eric Buining, managing director at KENC: “The main advantage of KENC’s ABLS is that there is no crane handling needed to deploy and retrieve the boat landing system. This results in more uptime and less risk.”

The ABLS is a robust and compact design that comes fully automated with an easy-to-operate control system and is equipped with hydraulic drives.

“The H-Type is a proven system with low storage height and suited for larger vessels, where the V-Type has an incredibly small footprint with simple and straightforward vessel interfaces”, says manager of engineering Cor Hilbrink.

The base configuration of both ABLS systems are certified and compatible with all common CTV’s. The ABLS can be upgraded with features such as an integration with board systems, luggage lifting system, flood lights etc.

Who is Kenc Engineering

KENC Engineering is a Dutch company specialising in engineering and custom-built equipment for the offshore energy sector. Founded in 2001 and based in Oldenzaal, the Netherlands, KENC supports global marine contractors with tailored solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and performance in offshore operations.

The company offers comprehensive services, including structural, mechanical, and hydrodynamic engineering, as well as finite element analysis (FEA). Their expertise enables the design and fabrication of specialised offshore equipment such as lifting tools, handling systems, installation aids, and seafastening solutions. KENC’s approach combines engineering precision with practical application, ensuring that each project meets the unique demands of offshore environments.

KENC has been involved in several significant projects within the offshore energy industry. Notably, they designed and delivered a Noise Mitigation Deployment System (NMDS) to facilitate the installation of wind turbine generators and offshore substation monopiles in German waters, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Additionally, KENC provided a full-scale Work Station Mock-Up (WSMU) for Heerema Marine Contractors, enabling efficient training and simulation for offshore operations.

The company’s commitment to quality is reflected in its ISO 9001:2015 certification by DNV, underscoring its dedication to maintaining high standards in engineering and project delivery. With a team of over 30 skilled engineers, KENC Engineering continues to be a trusted partner for offshore energy projects worldwide, delivering innovative and reliable solutions that meet the evolving needs of the industry.

Motive Adds International Finance Expert to Senior Team

Monday, 9th November 2020

Motive Offshore Group, specialist in marine equipment fabrication and rental, has appointed Declan Slattery as Chief Financial Officer.

Mr Slattery, who co-led Enpro Subsea through its recent acquisition by energy group Hunting plc, joins Motive as it continues to implement its domestic and international growth strategy to become a £20million EBITDA business by 2024.

To this, he brings 12 years’ financial experience – specifically focused upon oil field service providers – and a proven track record in M&A activity, new country entry and strategic development. He has held senior positions whilst based in the UK, USA and Norway.

Commenting on Mr Slattery’s appointment, CEO Dave Acton said: “We are exceptionally pleased to have secured Declan’s expertise; he will play a major role in the Motive journey – be that acquisition, organic growth, global expansion or service diversification.

“His international industry experience and existing relationship with Motive shareholders, EV, make Declan an ideal fit within our senior management team and we look forward to working with him as he helps steer the company to its next level.”

Mr Slattery added: “The Motive team has established a well-diversified revenue portfolio which has proved resilient in the current market. The synergies between us are already there, making this an exciting time for me to join the company and help to achieve the ambitious growth strategy.”

Launched in 2010 by James Gregg and Dave Acton, Motive Offshore Group is headquartered in Boyndie, Banff, Scotland, with additional offices in Aberdeen, Houston, Norway and the Middle East.

> Hydraulics & Winches
> Offshore Marine Cranes

Port of Tyne launches Tyne clean energy park to boost north east´s renewables infrastructure

Monday, 9th November 2020

Port of Tyne is using the Offshore Wind North East conference as the forum to launch its latest commercial venture, a new green energy park for the north east region.

Tyne Clean Energy Park has already welcomed its first tenant and will create a convenient, versatile strategic base for the region’s rapidly growing renewable energy sector. Port of Tyne’s new clean energy park will play an important role in supporting the government’s goal to power every UK home with offshore wind electricity.

Located on 4 sites, the Port of Tyne is one of only two deep sea ports in the north east region. Offering sites and berths to accommodate deep drafted vessels with no beam restriction, Port and Tyne Clean Energy Park users will benefit from unrestricted, lock free access to berths with 13.0m of depth alongside. The Port is a safe haven for offshore wind operators and other renewables specialists that is open 24/7, 365 days a year, during all tide states.

Earlier in 2020, the Port was selected as Equinor’s flagship operations and maintenance base, for what will become the world’s largest offshore wind farm at Dogger Bank. This success provided the catalyst for further land clearance to free up additional space for renewable energy tenants. The new Tyne Clean Energy Park will provide an infrastructure catering for all renewable energy production needs, with a total of 200 acres of land soon to become available within the park’s perimeters. Attracting tenants to Tyneside is expected to create thousands of jobs.

By choosing the Tyne Clean Energy Park as a commercial base, renewables businesses joining Equinor will have a unique opportunity to co-locate every aspect of their supply chains – from manufacturing and assembly operations to installation and marine maintenance activities. The Port’s unique location on the River Tyne provides safe and efficient marine access to existing offshore wind farm sites including Dogger Bank, Seagreen and Sofia, plus outstanding air, road and rail transport links to the rest of the UK and beyond.

The river Tyne is already home to an existing offshore cluster, with partner organisations such as the UK renowned South Tyneside Marine College, A&P, Smulders Projects, Shepherd Offshore and TechnipFMC, contributing to a well- established offshore energy supply chain. This existing infrastructure further increases the Port of Tyne’s suitability as a commercial base for renewables manufacturers, operators and servicing providers. Tyneside is also renowned for its local pool of offshore energy industry professionals, who have highly transferable skills for the renewables sector.

Port of Tyne is already rapidly transforming its own commercial operations to become a low-carbon industrial hub and made a clear commitment to decarbonisation in its Tyne 2050 strategy. This outlines the Port’s strategic vision to become an Enabler and Operator of clean energy powered maritime supply chain services, including being ‘Carbon Neutral by 2030’ and ‘All Electric by 2040’.

Matt Beeton, CEO at Port of Tyne says: “Tyne Clean Energy Park provides a fantastic opportunity for companies in the renewables sector who are looking for a long term operational base. We are absolutely committed to becoming a low carbon industrial hub and supporting innovation, so launching a green business hub at the Port is a natural evolution of our vision.”

Demonstrating a long term commitment to innovation, the Port of Tyne is leading the UK’s first 2050 Maritime Innovation Hub, a collaboration of organisations from maritime logistics, technology and academia. Launched in response to the government’s call for greater innovation in maritime, this has focused on a range of projects, including investigating the potential of renewables within Port of Tyne plus maritime relevant solutions using autonomous systems and AI.

Simon Brett, Commercial Director at Port of Tyne says: “There are three distinct supply chains relating to the offshore wind farm lifecycle involving component manufacture, construction services and operations. Each one of these requires different levels of investment, from plant and infrastructure to labour resourcing and all of it will be accommodated at the Tyne Clean Energy Park – it’s an excellent opportunity for businesses looking to expand their activities.”

Matt Beeton, CEO at Port of Tyne says: “With our access to offshore wind locations and deep water facilities, Tyne Clean Energy Park is definitely the most versatile on the East Coast. We’ve created a unique, development-ready blank canvas for renewables businesses to expand their operations and in facilitating this, we can directly contribute towards achieving 60% UK content for each wind farm developed. It’s integral to securing the green recovery that our region and the whole country so desperately needs.”

Video walkthrough: Tyne Clean Energy Park

> Offshore Marine Services Directory

Month: November 2020

Advertise with Seaplant

Join us