The First U.S. Wind Turbine Installation Vessel, Charybdis, Nears Completion

The highly anticipated wind turbine installation vessel, Charybdis, built for Dominion Energy, is nearing completion, according to shipbuilder Seatrium. The vessel, currently undergoing trials at the company’s AmFELS shipyard in Brownsville, Texas, is expected to revolutionize offshore wind projects in the United States.

Seatrium reports that Charybdis is 96 percent complete and fully compliant with U.S. Jones Act regulations, allowing it to operate seamlessly in domestic waters. Boasting impressive specifications, the vessel is designed to handle current and next-generation wind turbines up to 12 megawatts or larger, making it one of the largest WTIVs globally.

Dominion Energy has confirmed that Charybdis is progressing towards commissioning, with recent successful jacking trials, main crane load testing, and the commencement of sea trials. The vessel, measuring 472 feet in length, 184 feet in width, and 38 feet in depth, features a 426-foot crane capable of lifting up to 2,200 tonnes and can accommodate up to 119 personnel.

Charybdis is reportedly 96 percent complete and on schedule to deploy later in 2025 at Dominion’s Virginia offshore wind farm (Seatrium)

Construction of Charybdis commenced in December 2020 and was launched in April 2024. Originally slated for delivery in late 2023, the vessel’s completion date has been pushed to 2025. It is set to begin operations later this year at Dominion Energy’s Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project, contributing to the completion of the wind farm by the end of 2026.

Despite cost escalations, with estimates soaring from $500 million to $715 million, Dominion Energy remains committed to the offshore wind project. The company emphasizes the value of offshore wind energy and the vessel’s crucial role in advancing operations. While costs related to transmission lines have increased, the overall project remains on budget.

With the U.S. offshore wind energy market facing potential challenges, Charybdis, as the first U.S. wind turbine installation vessel, is poised for domestic installation projects and may also explore international opportunities due to a shortage of large installation vessels globally.