“Today, Remota operates multiple ROVs from our Remote Operations Center, and we have recently started operating underwater drones too. Expanding Remota’s service offering to USVs is a natural next step,” adds Sveinung Soma, CEO of Remota AS.
Remota AS is a joint venture company established by DeepOcean, Solstad Offshore and Østensjø, set up to fast-track the adoption of remotely managed services in order to drive down operating costs and emissions for the marine and offshore industries.
Controlled from Haugesund
The first USV will be remotely controlled from Remota’s Remote Operations Center in Haugesund, Norway. During operations, both the USV vessel crew and ROV operators will be co-located in this center.
In addition to operating the USV from shore, Remota will play a key role in the development of the USV, especially within remote control functionalities, communication technologies and maritime regulations.
Remota’s Remote Operations Center in Haugesund, Norway. (Image credit: Remota AS)
Through a combination of low weight, hybrid-electric propulsion system with battery package, remote operations and autonomous features, it is It is estimated that the newbuild USV can reduce CO2-emissions with more than 90 percent compared to a conventional offshore vessel when conducting subsea inspection, maintenance and repair (IMR) work.
The plan is that the first USV will be ready for operations in 2025, when it will go on charter for DeepOcean, who will utilize the USV for subsea IMR and survey work in the offshore renewables and oil and gas industries. The vessel will be capable of operating offshore for up to 30 days without charging or refueling. It will be equipped with a work ROV that is capable of operating down to 1,500 meters water depth.
Available to all vessel owners
Remota has recently also secured agreements with ferry operators that aim to develop remote marine operations and semi-autonomous and autonomous operations of ships.
“It is worth reminding companies in the shipping and offshore industries that Remota’s services are available to everyone involved with ocean-based activities. The company can help operators to become remote-ready and operate on demand from its Remote Operations Centers. Remota can also operate its customers’ vessels. It is a cost-efficient way of reducing costs, energy consumption and emissions, and increase efficiency in operations and improve safety for personnel,” concludes Sveinung Soma.
