Autonomous SWATH vessels for wind farm inspections: a comparative study on operational efficiency

This study investigates the performance of autonomous SWATH vessels, both with and without foils, in offshore wind farm (OWF) operations near the Shetland Islands. Utilizing hybrid propulsion systems powered by Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) and batteries, the research focuses on the vessels' operational availability during critical ROV deployment tasks. Through numerical simulations and a real-world case study, the SWATH without foils consistently outperforms traditional monohull vessels in terms of stability and availability, particularly under challenging sea conditions. The findings highlight the advantages of SWATH vessels in maintaining consistent performance in harsh environments, crucial for the efficiency and safety of OWF maintenance. This study offers valuable insights into the operational benefits of adopting advanced SWATH vessel designs, demonstrating their potential to enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of offshore wind farm operations.