Stillstrom Completes 11 kV Offshore Vessel Charging Interface

Stillstrom, a Maersk company, has completed construction and factory acceptance testing of its Vessel Container Unit (VCU). This 11 kV connection system lets service operation vessels (SOVs) charge their batteries directly from offshore wind farms. The milestone, witnessed by classification society DNV, marks progress toward commercial offshore charging infrastructure that could reduce vessels' reliance on onboard fuel-powered generation.

 

The containerised VCU houses a high-voltage connector package that transfers electricity from offshore wind infrastructure to a vessel's battery system. Its modular design supports installation at the bow, stern or beneath the deck, making it suitable for both newbuild vessels and retrofits. The unit can also be transferred between compatible vessels where onboard electrical connections permit.

 

The system uses an integrated funnel arrangement to guide and secure the charging connection while allowing the vessel to maintain an appropriate heading. Onboard controls and safety interlocks support connection and disconnection procedures, with the vessel's dynamic positioning operator retaining control throughout.

 

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Stillstrom describes the VCU as the world's first 11 kV offshore vessel charging interface. According to the company, the development required specialized marine connectors that could withstand repeated connections and disconnections in offshore conditions.

 

Graeme Wood, Managing Director of Stillstrom UK, said the completed testing demonstrates that the connection technology has progressed beyond design and simulation. However, the full offshore charging system has not yet undergone extended sea trials.

 

Development of the wind farm topside connection infrastructure is continuing, with the complete system expected to be ready for offshore trials by summer 2027. Stillstrom is also developing a second-generation design intended to introduce fully automated alignment, replacing the current semi-automatic approach.

 

Source: Stillstrom