Maritime Robotics to deliver autonomous navigation system to Ørsted USV fleet
Maritime Robotics, the Norwegian provider of autonomous navigation systems (ANS), has announced its contract with Ørsted, making it the supplier and integrator of the built-in ANS for Ørsted’s first fleet of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs).
In late June 2023, Ørsted announced the first USV in the industry for offshore metocean measurements. The USV has already been deployed and tested in the area where one of the first Norwegian offshore wind projects will be built. The vessel has proven its ability to deliver valuable insights on wind and seabed conditions, which means Ørsted can deliver the best possible offshore wind projects in collaboration with its Norwegian partners. The success of the first USV has resulted in the serial development of a new class of USVs that will include incorporated learnings from the prototype. As a continuation of the successful collaboration on the first USV, the new class of USVs will be built by Tuco Marine Group and the ANS delivered by Maritime Robotics.
“This official recognition of our years of cooperation fills us with delight. This significant milestone highlights our shared commitment to innovation and excellence within the maritime industry. Through our collaborative efforts, we have harnessed cutting-edge technologies and leveraged our expertise to create a remarkable platform that will revolutionize offshore operations. Ørsted’s utilization of USV technology represents a major leap forward, enabling more efficient and sustainable solutions in the renewable energy sector,” said Eirik Hovstein, chief of business development, Maritime Robotics.
Broadened operational capabilities
The USVs, like the first USV prototype, are designed for continuous operation in the harshest offshore conditions for a year at a time. However, the new class will have broadened operational capabilities that include deep-water operations for future floating wind farms. The built-in autonomous navigation system enables the metocean USV to transit from shore at various levels of autonomy, offering several advantages over conventional solutions that rely on large specialized support vessels. Moving the control and navigation to an in-line-of-sight or beyond-line-of-sight remote control centre removes the risk for offshore technicians while significantly reducing overall carbon emissions.
“Norway has a strong supplier base, ranging from heavy industry to high-tech, and Ørsted is working closely with a number of Norwegian suppliers to harvest the power of offshore wind, both in Norway and internationally. Maritime Robotics is a great example of how Norwegian companies can benefit from the build-out of offshore wind and deliver real innovation and value to the projects we’re developing with our Norwegian partners in Hafslund and Fred. Olsen Seawind,” said Sebastian Hald Buhl, Ørsted’s country manager for Norway.
