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As global energy demand persists and the race to net zero intensifies, the pressure on the energy sector is palpable. What’s more, the industry is fraught with complexity, where some of the harshest environments pose risk and danger at every turn. Here, Matthew Ratsey of Zero USV, argues that new technologies can rise to these challenges, putting operational excellence firmly on the map.
The stakes in offshore energy are incredibly high. It’s estimated that an average offshore platform experiences around 27 days of unplanned downtime a year, which can equate to $38m in losses. Delays to inspections, repairs and surveys often result from logistical hurdles, weather interruptions or limited vessel availability.
I’ve seen firsthand how traditional offshore operations rely heavily on manned vessels, and it’s a system full of challenges. Mobilising these vessels takes time, bad weather can bring everything to a halt, and even routine tasks like subsea pipeline inspections or rig surveys can create bottlenecks that throw entire projects off schedule. And let’s not forget the human risk, working offshore is one of the most dangerous environments out there.
But technology is changing the game, and USVs (uncrewed surface vessels) are leading the charge. With their advanced sensors and autonomous capabilities, these vessels tackle downtime head-on. They can be deployed quickly, even in the roughest conditions, and perform with a level of speed and efficiency that manned vessels simply cannot match. To me, they’re more than just an asset, they’re an invaluable solution to some of the biggest operational challenges in offshore work.
One of the standout benefits of the Oceanus12 class of USVs designed, built and operated by ZeroUSV is their capacity to operate beyond the visual line of sight. Furnished with the most advanced communications, sensors and navigation technology, these vessels can carry out ‘over-the-horizon’ missions, enabling remote management and oversight from shore-based control centres. This innovation marks a major step forward, allowing critical surveys and inspections to take place without the need for a manned support vessel on site.
Deployment of autonomous systems over the horizon can unlock a range of benefits for offshore operations, from economy of resources and people to improved speed, safety and reliability. Tasks such as seafloor mapping, subsea pipeline inspections, and environmental monitoring can now be executed with minimal human intervention. Leveraging advanced sensor technologies like multi-beam echo sounders and sub-bottom profilers, USVs can gather highly accurate data, while real-time transmission ensures swift analysis and informed decision-making.
Weather resilience and avoiding a domino of delays
Weather has always been one of the greatest obstacles in offshore operations. I’ve seen storms and rough seas bring entire projects to a grinding halt, delaying crucial inspections and repairs for days, sometimes even weeks. It’s frustrating to watch schedules unravel and costs skyrocket, all because the conditions are too dangerous for manned vessels. That’s where USVs are a game-changer.
Designed to thrive in challenging environments, they don’t flinch at the kind of weather that would either seriously degrade performance or send a crewed vessel back to port. With rugged hulls, these autonomous vessels stay on the job, keeping inspections and maintenance on track no matter what the forecast says.
Driving offshore operational excellence
When I think about the environmental challenges we face in offshore operations, it’s clear that USVs are a giant step forward. Unlike conventional vessels, which guzzle fuel and emit significant amounts of carbon just to stay operational, USVs are lean, efficient, and purpose-built. Their reduced size (due to no crew) and Hybrid Electric propulsion systems mean they consume far less energy, and because they don’t require human beings who need sleep, food and water onboard, there’s no need for the added weight, nor is there a requirement for support vessels. What’s even more impressive is their ability to perform precise monitoring and data collection without disturbing the environment they’re working in.
Looking ahead, there’s absolutely no doubt in my mind that long-range, oceanic USVs, such as those designed built and operated by ZeroUSV are the future of the offshore oil and gas industry. They’re not just another technological breakthrough, they’re a complete reimagining of how we tackle efficiency, safety, and sustainability. |
