Norwegian-Spanish collaboration: Zamakona to build, Austevoll Elektro and Sirius to integrate hybrid technology for FDA anchor handling vessel
Norwegian offshore contractor Finnsnes Dykk og Anleggservice (FDA) has signed a newbuild contract with Spanish shipbuilder Zamakona Yards Bilbao for a hybrid-powered anchor handling vessel. The vessel has been designed by Sirius Design & Integration specifically for the FDA’s needs and is scheduled for delivery in Q2 2028. In this new construction project, Austevoll Elektro will be the system integrator together with Sirius Design & Integration and will deliver a comprehensive system package.
“This is a project we look forward to solving together with FDA, Sirius, the Spanish shipyard and other involved suppliers. We have had a close and good collaboration with FDA over several years and greatly appreciate the new trust when they expand their portfolio with this state-of-the-art vessel,” says CEO of Austevoll Elektro, Sigve Gokstad.
The scope of delivery of Austevoll Elektro is extensive and consists of the following:
- AC Main and Emergency switchboards 690V/230V
- Integrated IAS and PEMS
- Battery system 870kWh
- Propulsion motors and frequency converters 2x1600kW
- Thruster motor and frequency converter 450kW
- Shore power system IEC 350A
- Commissioning at Zamakona, Bilbao, Spain
“We know Sirius from previous projects, but this is the first time we have collaborated on a new construction project with them. They have high expertise and solid experience, so it has been exclusively positive,” says Gokstad.
“For us, it is also valuable to enter into this newbuilding together with Austevoll Elektro. They have special expertise in electrical systems and hybrid solutions that will ensure FDA a state-of-the-art and well-functioning vessel,” says Christian Søvik, EVP Sales & Marketing at Sirius Design & Integration.
Hybrid vessels are becoming the new normal for newbuildings, and this is where Austevoll Elektro’s special expertise comes in. The vessel will have a hybrid propulsion system and battery for energy storage, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions and will be prepared to operate on HVO fuel.
“With these systems and solutions from Austevoll Elektro, FDA is assured of a state-of-the-art vessel with all necessary operating modes and functionalities. We are also going to great lengths to ensure that the project is solved and delivered as smoothly as possible for all parties involved, right up until vessel delivery,” says Gokstad.
The vessel, which is approximately 50 meters long and 14 meters wide, is designed to deliver a bollard pull of a minimum of 50 tons and a service speed of approximately 12 knots.
The vessel will be tailored to handle a variety of operations including anchor handling, offshore aquaculture, pipelaying, subsea work and ROV operations, and will also have a flexible deck for special operations.
“Within the service area, Austevoll Elektro has extensive international experience from a wide range of vessel types and within most segments. We have also gradually equipped ourselves to be able to take on larger and more complex assignments internationally within system integration both for new types of vessels and in several segments,” says Gokstad.
This is entirely in line with the strategy of Hanwha, which is the new owner of Austevoll Elektro and SEAM.
“Through new ownership in Hanwha, we will together gain even stronger prerequisites in the years ahead to be able to deliver the most complex system integrator assignments, both in Norway, Europe and globally,” concludes Gokstad.
