Starnav Elektra, which is reportedly going to be the first hybrid platform supply vessel (PSV) designed and built in Brazil, has been delivered to ABS class.

The 92.1-m, 5,500-dwt vessel, built by Detroit Brasil at its Itajaí shipyard, will operate for Petrobras under a long-term charter, supporting logistics offshore Brazil.

It is the first of up to 10 planned battery-hybrid vessels, comprising six PSVs and four oil spill response vessels.

Starnav Elektra carries the ABS ESS-LiBATTERY and HYBRID notations and the SUSTAIN-1 notation.

Its 1,322-kWh lithium iron phosphate battery system was developed to meet Petrobras’ DP2 requirements, including the capability to maintain position on battery power for up to 20 minutes in should a single engine failure arise.

The battery pack has been installed on the main deck rather than in the hull, in order to simplify maintenance access and reduce risk. It should also enable the vessel operate with fewer generators while maintaining safety margins, leading to reduced fuel consumption, emissions and engine maintenance cycles.

Matt Tremblay, ABS svp, Global Markets, said: “Brazil’s offshore energy sector is expanding quickly, and the vessels that support it need to keep pace with evolving operational demands and regulatory requirements.”

“We are delivering a vessel built for the next generation of global shipping.,” added Carlos Eduardo Pereira, Starnav CE.

“She is a hybrid vessel, equipped with an advanced battery energy storage system and ready to operate on renewable fuels such as HVO.”