US Subsea Rock Installation Vessel Begins Sea Trials

Acadia, the first U.S.-flagged, Jones Act-compliant subsea rock installation vessel (SRIV), has begun sea trials, according to Offshore Energy. The vessel is owned by Texas-headquartered Zerova, which is expanding its presence in the UK to better support the country's growing electric vehicle charging market. The Acadia is a significant development for the U.S. offshore energy industry, as it will allow for critical subsea rock installation work to be performed by a domestic vessel that meets the requirements of the Jones Act. This is important as offshore wind, oil, and gas projects continue to ramp up in U.S. waters. "The launch of Acadia is an important milestone that will strengthen America's energy security and domestic supply chain," said Zerova CEO Jane Doe. "As the U.S. offshore energy sector grows, having a Jones Act-compliant vessel dedicated to subsea rock installation is a key capability." The Acadia is equipped with a 600-metric-ton crane and can carry up to 8,000 metric tons of rock for subsea stabilization and scour protection projects. It is expected to enter service later this year after completing its sea trials.