Construction commences on Bibby Marine’s hybrid-electric eCSOV at Armon Shipyard
Bibby Marine has announced the start of construction on its hybrid-electric Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (eCSOV), which is part of the company’s plans for decarbonisation of offshore wind operations.
The keel laying ceremony was held at the Armon Shipyard in Vigo, Spain, signifying the beginning of the vessel’s assembly.
Armon Shipyard was awarded the construction contract for the eCSOV in January.
The 6,700gt vessel represents a blend of methanol engines and battery technology, designed to achieve zero-emission commissioning and support for offshore wind farms.
Slated to become operational in 2027, the vessel is expected to considerably cut lifecycle emissions and fuel consumption. It will accommodate up to 120 personnel on offshore deployments lasting up to a month.
Bibby Line Group CEO Jonathan Lewis said: “This vessel is more than a feat of engineering – it’s a symbol of our values as a business, in action. At Bibby Marine, we believe in doing the right thing, even when it’s difficult.
“We began work on zero-emissions vessels back in 2019, long before it was mainstream. As we lay the keel for our electric-first vessel, we are proud to be proving that clean, sustainable maritime solutions are not only possible, but essential.”
The eCSOV is a key component of Bibby Marine’s E-Mission Zero campaign, which urges the industry to unite in pursuit of a sustainable and cost-effective future for offshore wind operations.
The campaign gained momentum with a public open letter issued in June 2025, co-signed by industry leaders including Bibby Marine, Kongsberg Maritime, and Stillstrom, advocating for immediate action on lifecycle emissions.
Kongsberg is providing the dynamic positioning and main propulsion package for the eCSOV, Corvus Energy is the battery provider, and Wartsila is supplying the engine and propulsion systems.
