Partnership targets offshore CTV charging boost

UK firms Aqua superPower and Seawork exhibitor Tidal Transit have formed a partnership aimed at supporting the electrification of crew transfer operations serving offshore infrastructure, including wind farms.

The agreement focuses on deploying electric crew transfer vessel (E-CTV) projects for ports and harbours seeking to reduce emissions from offshore support activities.

Under the partnership, Tidal Transit will build and operate electric crew transfer vessels while overseeing offshore charging infrastructure. Aqua superPower will be responsible for designing, installing and maintaining shore-side charging systems at ports where vessels are based.

The companies said the arrangement is intended to simplify the transition to electric maritime operations by combining vessel deployment with charging infrastructure in a single delivery model.

Electrification of crew transfer vessels has emerged as a focus area for the offshore wind sector as operators look to cut emissions and reduce operating costs on short, high-frequency routes to wind farms.

Tidal Transit has previously tested electric vessel operations through its e-Ginny programme, which involved converting a diesel CTV to electric propulsion and developing offshore charging capabilities.

“Ports and harbours are looking for practical, scalable ways to decarbonise marine operations,” said Matt Holland, chief project engineer at Aqua superPower.

“By partnering with Tidal Transit, we can offer a complete charging ecosystem for electric crew transfer vessels that reduces project complexity and gives operators confidence to transition faster,” he said.

Leo Hambro said electric CTVs could help the offshore wind industry lower emissions and operating costs.

“Working with Aqua superPower allows us to combine our vessel expertise with proven charging infrastructure,” he said.

As offshore wind capacity expands, demand for lower-emission transport solutions is expected to increase, with ports and operators assessing how electrification can support future offshore energy projects.

Exhibitor;  Tidal Transit
Stand E5 Berth VB23