Rovco, a provider of tech-powered offshore wind solutions, has signed a framework agreement with Orsted to provide O&M (operations and maintenance) work on Block Island (pictured) and South Fork Wind projects.
Block Island Wind Farm, Rhode Island, was the first offshore wind farm in the United States and generates 30MW of renewable energy.
South Fork Wind became the US’ first commercial-scale wind farm in March of this year, delivering 132MW to Long Island in New York.
To help inform Orsted’s operations at these key sites, Rovco will carry out O&M work using ROV’s (remote operated vehicles) coupled with its state-of-the-art SubSLAM technology (simultaneous location and mapping).
This will provide live stream inspections and precise real-time 3D reconstructions of site assets, supporting quick decision-making onshore.
The full site data capture will give Orsted detailed insight into both the structures themselves and the surrounding environment, Rovco said.
Rovco’s industry-leading tech helps to cut both timelines and costs for developers in their inspection work, it added.
According to the company, this combination of AI, robotics, and SLAM technologies can be used to provide insights and drive efficiencies across the planning, development, construction, and maintenance phases at offshore wind sites.
With a strong reputation across global markets for these tech-powered offshore wind solutions, the agreement with Orsted is a key development in Rovco’s expansion plans for the US.
Crucial to this expansion will be Rovco’s commitment to supporting local supply chain objectives and hiring local talent.
The Orsted contract, along with other framework agreements, will enable the creation of 25 new roles that will be managed out of Rovco’s New York office, with recruitment already underway.
Mitch Johnson, Rovco’s director of Americas, said of the framework agreement: “We’re delighted to be working with Orsted, using our industry-leading technology to help them inspect and maintain two key offshore wind farms in the US.
“Landmark sites like Block Island and South Fork are crucial in building local supply chains, infrastructure, and jobs. Providing the momentum needed for further growth of the US offshore wind market.”
Brian Allen, chief executive at Rovco, added: “The US has the potential to be a leading market for offshore wind and Orsted is playing a key role in building capacity, so we’re proud to be supporting them with our high-tech offshore wind solutions.
“This framework agreement is an important contribution to Rovco’s global mission of accelerating the industry’s clean energy transition.”