Innovative Irish wind farm servicing vessel launched for export market
The innovative 20-metre aluminium catamaran, built specifically for servicing offshore wind farms in Britain, cost £1.7 million (€2.04m).
The development of the innovative vessel was part-financed by Enterprise Ireland’s research and development fund.
The project created 10 jobs during the build and fit-out process and a second vessel is under construction, again for the export market.
Arklow Marine Services core business is the design and construction of aluminium and steel boats such as passenger ferries and trawlers.
The company undertook the project when it secured a contract with British firm Gardline Shipping.
The need for new generation vessels for off-shore wind farms arose from the awarding of nine off-shore wind farm sites in British coastal waters in Jan 2010.
Britain is set to invest over £160 billion, over the next 30 years in developing their offshore wind energy resources.
Industry sources estimate that up to €30bn of investment in Irish offshore wind farms is also possible.
To fulfil the contract, Arklow Marine Services had to develop new building methods and processes for the construction of the vessel.
Head of Cleantech with Enterprise Ireland, Tom Kelly, said innovation is essential to the international competitiveness of Irish firms.
“This new line by Arklow Marine Services allows them to target a sophisticated and growing industry. It will enable them to target export markets and create valuable employment at home in Wicklow.”
