Equinor, the creator of Empire Wind, formally inaugurated the Service Operations Vessel ECO Liberty on June 28 for implementation in its New York offshore wind initiative, signifying the completion of a substantial investment in the U.S. shipbuilding sector. Louisiana First Lady Sharon Landry acted as the vessel’s “Godmother” during a launch ceremony on the Mississippi River at the Port of New Orleans.
Speakers at the occasion included Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, alongside executives from Equinor and Edison Chouest Offshore. A declaration signed by New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell designating June 28 as ECO Liberty Day was presented during the event.
The American-manufactured ECO Liberty was constructed by Edison Chouest Offshore by over 500 Louisianans and highlights the vital role of Gulf Coast manufacturing firms in fortifying the supply chain for offshore energy. The vessel was created using American steel and incorporates components from businesses across various Gulf Coast states.
“The ECO Liberty exemplifies the beneficial effect Empire Wind is having on the U.S. economy,” stated Molly Morris, President of Equinor Renewables Americas. “Equinor appreciates the chance to partner with Louisiana’s exceptional shipbuilding sector as we back the Trump Administration’s initiatives to boost U.S. vessel production. This vessel demonstrates how offshore wind can generate sustainable, high-quality employment while developing a local energy supply chain.”
The 262-ft hybrid-powered ECO Liberty is set to depart for New York, where it will be stationed at New York’s South Brooklyn Marine Terminal, where over 2,000 workers have been engaged in building a next-generation staging facility, O&M base, and control center for Empire Wind. The ECO Liberty will be utilized to aid ongoing marine construction in the lease area and will eventually function as the floating residence for Empire Wind’s skilled laborers while stationed offshore. In addition to the ECO Liberty, seven new U.S.-registered vessels will be added to the U.S. Jones Act compliant fleet as a result of Empire Wind.
News update from Empire Wind
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