Dutch marine contractor Van Oord has entered a new phase of »green shipping« and ordered a newbuilding that is said to be the first LNG-driven crane vessel.
This vessel, which will be named »Werkendam«, will be Van Oord’s first LNG-powered vessel. It will generally be deployed to[ds_preview] Netherlands-based projects executed by subsidiary Paans Van Oord.
The »Werkendam« is being built by Neptune in Hardinxveld-Giessendam, the Netherlands. It will take about twelve months to build the crane vessel. After completion, the vessel will be able to run on LNG, with gas oil as backup. According to a statement, with a 38 m3 tank on the aft deck, the »Werkendam« will be able to store enough LNG on board to sail and operate for fourteen days without bunkering LNG.
»Energy efficiency is one of the top items on our sustainability agenda. To reduce our carbon footprint, we are researching the use of alternative fuels, such as LNG and biofuel. With this investment, we will be gaining experience of LNG-powered vessels and the related benefits«, said Jaap de Jong, Staff Director of the Ship Management Department at Van Oord.
The newbuilding will be equipped »with various sensors and energy storage systems«. The sensors are said to monitor the energy consumption of almost all of the equipment and systems on board, which will even make it possible to store and reuse overcapacity, for example when operating the crane. It is planned that the data produced by these monitoring systems will provide crew members with an insight into energy consumption, enabling them to respond appropriately.
Specifications
Length: 68.40 m
Breadth overall: 11.40 m
Hopper capacity: 700 m3
Propulsion: 2 x 550 kW
Bow thruster: 450 kW
LNG-powered generator: 3 x 475 kW
LNG tank: 1 x 38 m3
Spud poles: 2 x, electric-powered
Crane:
Type: four-rope grab crane
Lifting capacity: 20 t at 20 m and 25 t at 16 m
