MJR Power & Automation’s Whitepaper Charts the Path to Offshore Fleet Electrification

Charge Offshore consortium lead, MJR Power & Automation, has recently published a comprehensive new whitepaper, “Offshore Charging: Wind Farm O&M Fleet Electrification Enabler,” commissioned by Scottish Power Renewables (SPR). This whitepaper forms part of SPR’s ongoing studies into viable pathways to decarbonise offshore wind farm operations.

The document presents an in-depth economic analysis of transitioning offshore operations and maintenance (O&M) fleets from diesel to electric propulsion, alongside key strategic recommendations for policymakers, regulators and network operators. Among the report’s most significant findings is the data-led projection that capital expenditure (CAPEX) for electric crew transfer vessels (e-CTVs) and electric service operation vessels (e-SOVs) is falling rapidly, driven by advances in battery technology and manufacturing.

Rendering of the Offshore Charging System in operation

Importantly, operational expenditure (OPEX) is also projected to reach parity with conventional vessels, with the potential to deliver cost savings as battery prices continue to decline and regulatory incentives for electrification grow. This shift is further underpinned by the relatively minor engineering upgrades required to integrate offshore charging infrastructure into existing and new wind farm developments.

As Paul Cairns, CEO of MJR Power & Automation, commented:

“Electrification of offshore O&M fleets is no longer a future aspiration, but a present-day opportunity with compelling technical and economic justification. The data and insights from this whitepaper clearly show that, with the right combination of policy backing, technological readiness and industry collaboration, we can unlock a new era of clean, cost-effective offshore operations.”

The whitepaper also highlights that incorporating offshore charging infrastructure at the design stage of new wind farms is straightforward, cost-effective, and can significantly enhance the sustainability of offshore wind projects.

The Role of Charge Offshore and Blackfish Engineering

At Blackfish Engineering, we are proud to support Charge Offshore’s mission by providing the mechanical engineering and design expertise necessary to bring these charging solutions to life. Our collaboration with MJR Power & Automation through Charge Offshore reflects our shared commitment to enabling a sustainable future for offshore renewables.

Find out more by visiting the Charge Offshore Website here: Home | Charge Offshore

Looking Ahead

MJR Power & Automation’s whitepaper is a timely and insightful contribution to the energy transition conversation. By demonstrating that offshore O&M fleet electrification is not just feasible but also economically and operationally sound, it lays the groundwork for immediate and meaningful progress.

📖 You can read the full whitepaper here: New | Charge Offshore

Explore our Innovators Corner feature on MJR Power and Automation and their ground: breaking offshore power and charging solutions: https://www.blackfishengineering.com/post/innovators-corner-mjr-power-and-automation-leading-the-way-in-offshore-power-and-charging

If you would like to learn more about how these findings could support your projects or discuss how Blackfish Engineering can help bring your offshore ambitions to fruition, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.