Awilco has placed a newbuilding order in an effort to become a major player in the market for service and maintenance of offshore wind farms.
The Anders Wilhelmsen-controlled company plans to build a fleet for transporting personnel to offshore wind turbines.
New Awilco company Integrated Wind Solutions has concluded an order for two specialised ships with China Merchants Heavy Industry, with options for four more units. The company has hired Lars-Henrik Roren to head up this new venture from 1 April.
He declined to comment on the vessels' price, but Norwegian financial newspaper Finansavisen reported the six ships will cost almost NOK 3bn ($353m) in total.
About 80% of the contract includes equipment from providers from Kongsberg Maritime, DNV GL and MacGregor. Roren confirmed that Awilco has aggressive plans for growth and wishes to establish itself as a significant player in the wind service vessel segment.
After previously working for Fred Olsen Windcarrier, he is now in charge of Awilco Technical Services. China Merchants Heavy Industry is also building the transport and installation vessels for Arne Blystad’s Offshore Heavy Transport.
Awilco is one of the leading shareholders in Royal Caribbean Cruises, with a 12% stake.
Recently, the privately-owned company sold two of its four modern VLCCs to DHT Holdings. It also owns containerships and controls Oslo-listed Awilco LNG.
