Bibby Marine launches battery-first eCSOV in Spain

Bibby Marine has launched what it is calling a ‘first of a kind’ electric commissioning service operation vessel (eCSOV).

The vessel Staffordshire was launched at Armon Shipyard in Vigo, Spain and will have to undergo more outfitting such as battery system installation, before delivery.

Staffordshire is designed around battery-first propulsion, with energy storage providing the primary power source rather than supplementing conventional propulsion. Bibby Marine is working with Kongsberg on propulsion systems and Corvus Energy on batteries, while Stillstrom is developing compatibility with offshore charging infrastructure.

Offshore charging could reduce reliance on onboard fuel generation, depending on the availability of charging facilities and the vessel’s operating profile.

Bibby Marine estimates the design could reduce operating costs by more than 40% in self-charging mode and around 70% when operating solely with offshore charging. These are company estimates, with actual savings dependent on operational conditions.

The project has received £20 million in funding through the UK’s Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) programme, which supports technologies aimed at reducing maritime emissions.

Jonathan Lewis, chief executive of Bibby Line Group, said: “The launch of Staffordshire is a proud moment for Bibby Marine and for everyone who has helped bring this vessel to life.

“This is not just another vessel entering the water; it is a game-changing step towards cleaner, smarter and more efficient offshore operations.”

Nigel Quinn, chief executive of Bibby Marine, said the vessel represented a shift towards battery propulsion in offshore support fleets.

“Bibby has moved with every energy transition since 1807, from wind to steam, coal to oil, and now to battery power, putting the most advanced propulsion available to work, not just the most familiar,” he said.

The eCSOV is intended to support offshore wind farm operations.