Corvus Energy, a leading provider of zero-emission solutions for the marine industry, announced plans to supply a mega-size battery system for the world’s first fully electric offshore vessel. The ship, a Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (eCSOV), is being built by Astilleros Armon shipyard in Spain for UK-based shipowner Bibby Marine Ltd.
Corvus Energy will deliver its Blue Whale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which will provide nearly 25MWh of power. This will be the largest Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery system ever installed on a maritime project.
Pål Ove Husoy, vice president of sales at Corvus Energy, commented: “A fully electric offshore vessel has been a long-term goal for the industry, and this marks a significant achievement. This eCSOV will be the first offshore vessel capable of operating fully electric for an entire day. It will set a new standard for future offshore vessels. The combination of battery power and dual-fuel methanol engines will drastically reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency, while still delivering the performance needed for offshore wind and renewable operations.”
Optimizing Efficiency
Corvus Energy has worked closely with the shipowner, designer, and integrator to optimize the system’s design. Unlike traditional hybrid systems, this vessel will primarily use its large battery pack for power. The engines will only be used for charging at a steady, optimized load, which will help extend battery life, improve efficiency, and significantly cut emissions.
The vessel’s innovative DC grid architecture enhances system performance by minimizing energy loss and ensuring smooth power distribution. Additionally, the vessel will have offshore charging capabilities, allowing the battery to charge while the vessel maintains dynamic positioning (DP) for station-keeping—an industry first for Service Operation Vessels (SOV).
Gavin Forward, Bibby Marine’s new build director, said: “We’re thrilled to work with Corvus Energy on this groundbreaking eCSOV project. It sets a new standard for sustainable offshore operations and leads the way for zero-emission vessel technology.”
Forward also explained that Bibby Marine chose Corvus Energy “for its proven expertise in delivering complex vessel projects. The LFP battery chemistry aligns perfectly with our eCSOV’s operational needs, offering greater safety, longevity, and reliability. This project is a significant step toward achieving net-zero emissions in the maritime sector.”
Corvus Energy will deliver the necessary equipment to the shipyard in 2026, and the vessel is expected to begin operating in 2027 to support the commissioning and operation of UK offshore wind farms.
