James Fisher Marine Services (JFMS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the helicopter services provider NHV to develop and commercialise integrated packages for the offshore wind sector.
The two companies said they will explore the advantages aviation services can bring to integrated construction support and operation and maintenance (O&M) contracts in the offshore wind sector. JFMS stated this would be an extension of its existing capabilities, including its offshore wind management system (OWMS®).
The partnership also opens up the possibility for future collaboration on the design, integration and delivery of ‘Helo’ services as part of broader wind farm construction and O&M activities.
In particular, both parties are keen to develop new ways of integrating helicopter with marine operations, including crew transfer vessels (CTVs), service operations vessels (SOVs) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
“We see the integration of aviation services with crew transfer vessels (CTVs) and service operation vessels (SOVs) as a significant ‘key’ to unlocking wind farm development further offshore. NHV is an ideal partner and service provider that’s already established in offshore aviation services, with a presence in all of the North Sea’s oil and gas operating regions, and has a fantastic track record of excellence, “ Martin Dronfield , director of strategy and business development at JFMS, said. “This partnership further demonstrates our forward-thinking mentality, driving this resource offering, in anticipation of a step-change for wind developers around the world.”
Eric Van Hal , CEO of the NHV Group, said: “We are honored to engage in a relationship with JFMS. As offshore operations become increasingly complex, there is a need to provide a greater scope of support services. The extensive knowledge of JFMS, combined with the broad experience from NHV, allows us to create a fruitful synergy between both of our industries. Together, we will be able to offer our clients an all-in service that meets or exceeds the highest international standards for safety and reliability.”
JFMS and NHV said they hoped this would lead to an integrated offer which allows project developers to maximise offshore wind farm yields by providing another option for crew transfers further from land – which will keep them up and running for longer and maximise productivity.