ABB has secured a contract with Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) to deliver an integrated power and propulsion package for the semi-submersible heavy transport vessel (HTV) Grand Tour, ordered by offshore contractor Allseas to support its offshore wind operations.

The 230-metre vessel, due for delivery in 2028, will carry large converter stations from fabricators in Asia and Europe and transfer them directly to Allseas’ construction vessel Pioneering Spirit for installation at offshore wind sites. Converter stations convert AC electricity generated by turbines into DC power for transmission to shore via subsea cables.

Grand Tour will be capable of carrying loads of up to 40,000 tonnes on its stern deck. The vessel will position itself alongside Pioneering Spirit and lower its main deck below the waterline to float converter stations directly on board — a manoeuvre that places considerable demands on the vessel’s propulsion and positioning systems.

To meet these requirements, ABB’s package includes four 3.5 MW nozzled Azipod propulsion units, which rotate 360 degrees to provide the bollard pull and dynamic positioning (DP) capability needed for precise stationkeeping alongside Pioneering Spirit. The nozzles are said to maintain high propulsive efficiency during transit. According to ABB, the gearless design of the Azipod units reduces mechanical losses and fuel consumption compared with conventional mechanical thrusters, as well as lowering noise, vibration, lubrication oil requirements and maintenance costs.

The full ABB supply scope includes a medium-voltage AC power plant in a closed ring topology, controlled by the company’s PEMS power and energy management system, along with an enhanced power plant protection system (EPPS). Remote condition monitoring and maintenance capabilities are also included.

Zhou Xuhui, President of Guangzhou Shipyard International, remarked: “Grand Tour demonstrates GSI’s capabilities in delivering even the most complex vessels and marks another exciting collaboration with our long-standing and trusted partner, ABB.”

Rune Braastad, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division, commented: “It’s fantastic to see our power and propulsion technology delivering such strong value in demanding heavy-lift operations. Projects like this demonstrate how advanced, integrated systems can make operations leaner, cleaner and more efficient, raising performance and safety to a new level, while also opening new market opportunities.”