Denmark-based Global Container Shipping and logistics major AP Moller Maersk has launched Maersk Offshore Wind, that will provide installation services to the offshore wind market based on a new and state-of-the-art offshore Wind Installation Vessel (Maersk WIV) concept. The firm claims that the design and concept are estimated to reduce the installation time of offshore wind turbines substantially compared to conventional methods, thereby lowering the overall installation cost for the developers. The first vessel will be delivered in 2025.
Denmark based firms like Vestas have enjoyed a strong position in the offshore wind market, expected to grow strongly to 2050, based on demand projections from the EU and US, the two markets where European firms remain competitive in offshore wind. Maersk Offshore Wind claims it can reduce installation time by about 30%, which means faster energy delivery and lower installation costs, leading to better total installation economics.
Martin Larsen, CFO of A.P. Moller Holding and Chair of Maersk Offshore Wind says: ”We need new solutions to meet the ambitious goals for offshore wind capacity in Europe and the US. Maersk Offshore Wind’s concept can reduce the installation time of offshore wind turbines by almost one-third, delivering energy to the grid faster and lowering total installation costs increasing the competitiveness of our customers when they bid for new projects. We are establishing Maersk Offshore Wind as an independent entity to leverage our decades of offshore expertise and accelerate the development of the offshore wind industry.”
Michael Reimer Mortensen has been appointed CEO of Maersk Offshore Wind. He brings over 20 years of extensive experience in managing complex maritime operations and customer requirements in the energy sector.
Speaking on the occasion, he said “With our highly skilled and experienced team leveraging decades of expertise in operating large assets and executing complex offshore projects, Maersk Offshore Wind will focus on providing offshore wind installation services worldwide to improve both the installation process and address critical port infrastructure needs. We look forward to continuing our partnerships with leading developers and industry stakeholders to further accelerate the deployment of offshore wind thereby enabling sustainable and affordable energy to communities worldwide.”
Maersk Offshore Wind is a spin off from Maersk Supply Service, who designed and developed the Maersk WIV and have marketed the concept since 2018.
