Northern Offshore Services (N-O-S), a Sweden-based company specializing in crew transfer vessels (CTVs) for the offshore wind sector, has introduced a groundbreaking vessel named Transporter. Delivered recently, this CTV is the world’s first to operate solely on biomethanol, a renewable fuel. The vessel has been chartered by Vestas, a leading wind turbine supplier, under a five-year agreement initiated in 2022. This collaboration aims to explore sustainable alternatives for offshore operations.

Northern Offshore Services (N-O-S)

David Kristensson, Group CEO of Northern Offshore Group, highlighted the milestone: “We now operate the world’s first single fuel biomethanol crew transfer vessel. We are improving our fleet’s sustainability and setting a new standard for the maritime industry. Biomethanol represents a powerful alternative to conventional fuels, and we are proud to lead the way.” The Transporter, a 25-meter high-speed catamaran, evolved from an A-Class to a T-Class design. It features an enhanced hull and seating for 24 passengers, tailored for efficient technician transfers and light cargo delivery.

The shift to biomethanol power resulted from a joint effort with Vestas, which seeks to lower carbon emissions in its offshore services. The conversion process built on a partnership that began three years ago. N-O-S ensured a steady biomethanol supply through Northern Energy & Supply (N-E-S), overcoming competition for this eco-friendly fuel. The initiative reflects a broader industry move toward cleaner energy solutions, reducing reliance on traditional marine gas oil (MGO).

Lisa Ekstrand, Head and VP of Sustainability at Vestas, emphasized the project’s significance: “We are leading the wind industry in testing solutions that move us away from using marine gas oil (MGO). Opportunities exist for operating low-emission vessels. Commitment and alliances are needed to further exploit these opportunities.” She added: “We are proud to be the first company in the wind industry to test the use of a single-fuel bio-methanol-powered CTV in our offshore service operations.” This step underscores Vestas’ commitment to sustainability in wind energy logistics.

The Transporter’s design and fuel choice position N-O-S and Vestas as pioneers in maritime and renewable energy sectors. By adopting biomethanol, the vessel offers a viable path to reducing emissions while maintaining operational efficiency. This development, rooted in the 2022 agreement, sets a precedent for future low-emission vessels in the offshore wind industry, supporting broader environmental goals.