Technology transfer in practice

The large concrete structures built in the oil sector during its first few decades were made possible in part by extensive experience gained from constructing hydropower dams in the 1950s and 1960s.

There is also significant technology transfer from the oil sector, particularly to other industries that create value at sea.

One sector that currently generates very little value, but could become significant over time, is offshore wind power. Several countries have developed offshore wind farms, but so far only fixed-bottom installations have reached any significant scale. This is now becoming commercially viable without subsidies.

Norwegian suppliers are focusing primarily on the 'next generation' – floating offshore wind. Floating offshore wind is still some way from becoming profitable without subsidies. Costs must come down to achieve profitability. Three key areas for cost reduction are foundations, mooring systems and cabling. A number of Norwegian companies with experience from the petroleum industry are involved in all three areas.

In foundation design and construction, we have companies such as Dr. techn. Olav Olsen and Aker Solutions. Both companies have roots dating back to before oil production began and have helped deliver technology transfers.

Offshore installations must be securely anchored. Anchor handling is also an important part of the oil industry. The sector employs both shipyards and shipping companies that develop anchor-handling vessels, as well as companies that design and manufacture the mooring systems themselves.

Cables are needed to transport the power ashore. The higher the voltage, the less energy is lost when transmitting power from the power plants to the end user. Transformers are therefore also necessary. Both cables and transformers need protection from the water. Companies involved in these operations include Unitech, Deep Ocean, Rosenberg Worley, Subsea 7 and Partnerplast. They all have experience from the oil industry.

Finally, several companies are involved in developing equipment and software to control and monitor operations, as well as forecast and measure weather and waves. These include Wise Group Automasjon og Data and Origo Solutions.

Supplier companies have also turned their attention to other ocean-based industries. One important innovation has been the development of remotely operated underwater vehicles, known as ROVs. These have been used to monitor subsea installations on the continental shelf, among other applications. They can also monitor pens at salmon farms to detect holes and prevent salmon from escaping. ROVs can also inspect tunnels at hydropower plants.

Companies in the supplier industry have also delivered solutions for road tunnel safety and systems that monitor sewer networks to prevent leaks. The transfer of materials, specific technological solutions, ideas and working methods is widespread.