HST Ella’s performance characteristics include transit speeds of 10 knots on electric propulsion and 30 knots on diesel, while during port operations, the vessel’s electric operation mode allows for quiet and zero emission low speed maneuverability.
This is enabled by the vessel’s unique hybrid propulsion system. An electric motor sits alongside a diesel engine to drive a high-performance changeable pitch propeller (CPP) system, ensuring superior maneuverability and operational flexibility. The system is coupled with the vessel’s advanced hull form for reduced frictional resistance, and its use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO30) as fuel – a market first for a new build CTV.
Advanced CTVs such as the HST Ella are increasingly expected to perform a range of auxiliary duties alongside personnel transport. The 26-metre vessel is able to carry 24 industrial personnel alongside a maximum payload of 15 tonnes, ensuring maximum versatility when supporting offshore wind operations. Following its launch, the HST Ella will depart to begin its maiden contract at the East Anglia 1 (EA1) wind farm.
The formal handover of the vessel to HST, took place last week (August 11th) at Diverse Marine, celebrating the ingenuity of the British shipbuilding sector, and the enviable concentration of this expertise on England’s South coast and the Isle of Wight.
“Modern crew transfer operations in offshore energy increasingly require proven vessels with a powerful presence on the water” said Tom Nevin, Chief Executive Officer, HST. “At the same time, a future-proof fleet consists of vessels with strong green credentials as the goal of emissions reduction continues to move up the agenda. Rapidly maturing hybrid technology means that environmental consciousness can sit hand in hand with operational excellence, and in the HST Ella, we have a vessel that delivers both, following a consultative design process with Chartwell Marine, and a high-quality build at Diverse Marine.”
Ben Colman, Director, Diverse Marine, added that the UK is rightly proud of its world leading maritime industry, and that with this market first hybrid CTV, designed and built on the South Coast, Diverse Marine is proud to add to a long record of maritime innovation in the country.
“As we hand over the keys to the HST team, we wish them all the best as they take the HST Ella to charter to support safe, efficient wind farm operations” said Mr Colman.
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