How the First Jones Act Compliant Wind Turbine Installation Vessel is Helping to Develop the U.S. Offshore Wind Supply Chain

Abstract

Abstract Meeting the U.S. offshore wind target of 30 GW installed capacity by 2030 will present significant supply chain opportunities for port infrastructure developments, major windfarm components, increased steel demand, and construction of transportation and installation (T&I) solutions in U.S. shipyards such as specialized wind turbine installation vessels (WTIVs). This paper discusses how the design and construction of "Charybdis" –– the first Jones Act Compliant WTIV –– are helping to drive the supply chain for offshore wind development and the energy transition toward more sustainable solutions. A consortium of designer and shipyard led by a major developer, Dominion Energy is building the Charybdis WTIV. This paper highlights how the project team leveraged experience in the oil and gas industry and offshore wind from Europe to develop the first specialized WTIV for U.S. wind farm construction and East Coast operation. The paper also discusses important aspects such as project execution, risk assessment, technology innovation, and compliance with U.S. Regulations and safety standards. The Charybdis is one of the largest WTIVs in the world and an important enabler for a safer and more cost-effective deployment of U.S. offshore wind energy and a move toward sustainable energy solutions. The insights and experience gained with the concept development, design, and construction of Charybdis, will benefit the next generation turbine installations in the U.S. and worldwide, and promote the collaboration of future wind turbine supply chain development.