RWE enters 'mega' vessel deal to support offshore wind buildout

RWE has entered a “mega” deal to procure four vessels from British supplier North Star to support the German power giant’s offshore wind buildout in Europe.

North Star announced this morning that it has secured multi-million-pound landmark agreements to support RWE’s growing offshore wind farm portfolio with four hybrid-powered commissioning and service operation vessels.

The deal comprises two firm long-term charter agreements and two reservation agreements for new-build vessels, “together representing the first and largest commitment in the sector to date,” said North Star.

The British vessel supplier added that it is the biggest deal in North Star’s history.

“Through this long-term partnership, RWE is taking a strategic step by securing next generation service operations vessels against the backdrop of a tight market,” said Thomas Michel, COO of RWE Offshore Wind.

North Star said it had “previously set the world record” for sector deals after securing a three-ship agreement in 2021 for the Dogger Bank offshore wind project being developed by Equinor and SSE.

The new four-vessel agreement will secure employment for up to 200 personnel working across the fleet, including up to 100 new roles on- and offshore over the next decade, said North Star.

The new partnership includes the charter of two next-generation hybrid commissioning SOVs to support RWE’s North Sea operations and maintenance schedule.

The Grampian Eagle and the Grampian Kestrel were delivered into operations this year, both vessels are described as "futureproofed" and ready for alternative low-emission fuels.

Additionally, RWE and North Star have signed a reservation agreement for two newbuild SOVs, which will be designed and constructed by global designer and shipbuilder VARD.

The first hull will be constructed at Vard Shipyards Romania, with final outfitting and delivery from one of VARD’s Norwegian shipyards. The delivery is scheduled for the final quarter of 2027.

The second vessel will be built and delivered from Vard Vung Tau in Vietnam, with delivery scheduled for 2029.

According to Vard, the vessels are equipped with a battery hybrid system and ready for future conversion to operation on methanol.

North Star said the deal represents a major expansion of its operational footprint across UK and Europe and “sets a new standard for strategic early engagement between vessel owners and developers.”

North Star CEO Gitte Gard Talmo said: “This landmark deal is the beginning of a strategic partnership between two industry leaders, built on early engagement, mutual trust and shared ambitions.”

“With these agreements, we’re putting our scale and track record where it matters the most.”