Kongsberg Maritime to Upgrade Solstad’s Normand Sentinel with Electric Rim-Drive Azimuth Thrusters

Kongsberg Maritime has been chosen to upgrade Solstad’s Normand Sentinel subsea construction vessel with electric rim-drive azimuth thrusters, enhancing its energy efficiency. The vessel, measuring 143 meters in length, will undergo this upgrade during its next scheduled drydocking. By replacing the current mechanical thrusters with Kongsberg Maritime’s rim-drive thrusters, Solstad is expected to see significant energy savings and reduced maintenance costs.

The transition to rim-drive thrusters is part of Solstad’s commitment to reducing emissions and improving sustainability in the maritime industry. This upgrade is projected to result in energy savings of up to 16% during transit operations and 40% in Dynamic Positioning mode. The retrofit process is designed to be efficient, requiring minimal modifications to the vessel’s hull and seamlessly integrating the new thrusters with the existing equipment.

The collaboration between Kongsberg Maritime and Solstad, reinforced by a partnership agreement signed in November 2023, focuses on decarbonization initiatives and enhancing fuel efficiency across Solstad’s fleet. This partnership also aims to explore the integration of digital technologies to further improve operational efficiency. The upgrade of the Normand Sentinel demonstrates Kongsberg Maritime’s commitment to technological advancements and innovation for a greener maritime industry.

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