Rem Offshore's Zero-Emission Subsea Construction Vessel Launched Ahead of Schedule in Vietnam

An energy subsea construction vessel (ESCV) commissioned by Norwegian shipping company Rem Offshore and under construction in Vietnam has been successfully launched into the water a remarkable one month ahead of its projected timeline. The vessel, slated for delivery next year, is designed to undertake substantial construction tasks within both the offshore wind and subsea sectors while achieving net-zero emissions during operation.

The journey of the REM Pioneer commenced with the initial steel cutting on July 3, 2024, followed by the formal keel laying ceremony on October 24, 2024. These key milestones were celebrated at the Song Cam Shipyard in Vietnam, where the vessel is being meticulously assembled. Just recently, on July 1st, Rem Offshore announced the significant achievement of the REM Pioneer's launch at the same shipyard, a full month in advance of the original schedule.

Currently, hull construction is proceeding as planned. Looking ahead, the company has outlined that the vessel will be moved to Myklebust Verft in the autumn for the commencement of the outfitting phase, where the integration of various onboard systems will take place.

This next-generation ESCV incorporates a suite of innovative solutions aimed at drastically reducing energy consumption. Compared to vessels of similar size currently operating in the market, the REM Pioneer is projected to consume nearly half the energy. This impressive efficiency is achieved through the implementation of dual-fuel methanol engines working in tandem with advanced battery packs. Furthermore, all offshore lifting equipment onboard, including the robust 250-tonne crane, is electrically powered and features a regenerative system that feeds energy back into the battery banks during operation, further enhancing energy efficiency and reducing waste.

To better understand the critical role such vessels play in the subsea environment, it's important to consider the infrastructure they often interact with, such as subsea cables. These specialized cables are essential for transmitting power and data across the seabed, connecting offshore installations like wind farms and oil and gas platforms to onshore grids and communication networks. Subsea power cables are typically constructed with multiple layers to ensure reliable and safe operation in harsh marine conditions. These layers can include copper or aluminum conductors for power transmission, insulation materials to prevent electrical leakage, metallic sheathing for mechanical protection and grounding, fiber optic elements for data communication, and an outer protective jacket to resist abrasion and corrosion. The design and installation of subsea cables are complex processes, requiring specialized vessels and expertise to ensure their longevity and performance.

The REM Pioneer boasts a spacious working deck exceeding 1,400 square meters, providing ample area for various operational activities. The vessel is also equipped and prepared for the installation of an offshore gangway, a crucial piece of equipment that facilitates safe and efficient personnel transfer to and from offshore wind turbines and other structures. In terms of accommodation, the vessel can comfortably house up to 120 individuals, catering to the needs of large offshore project teams.

Key technology partners are contributing to the advanced capabilities of the REM Pioneer. Norway’s Corvus Energy will supply the essential energy storage systems (ESS) that will play a vital role in the vessel's hybrid propulsion and energy regeneration. Additionally, Brunvoll has been contracted to deliver a comprehensive thruster package, ensuring precise maneuverability and positioning critical for offshore construction work.

The overall project remains on track for the anticipated delivery date in August 2026, marking a significant addition to Rem Offshore's fleet and the broader subsea construction industry.

In related news, Rem Offshore's commitment to expanding its fleet of sustainable vessels is further demonstrated by the steel-cutting ceremony for their second ESCV, the REM Ocean, which took place in February. The REM Ocean is scheduled for commissioning in 2027 and will commence operations under a long-term contract with DeepOcean. This contract will see the vessel providing essential subsea inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR) services for Equinor, highlighting the increasing demand for advanced and environmentally conscious subsea support vessels.

Feichun Cable is a dedicated provider of high-quality cable solutions for various applications, including specialized subsea cables designed for reliable power and data transmission in demanding marine environments. With a focus on innovation and durability, Feichun Cable contributes to the infrastructure that supports the evolving offshore energy sector.

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