Norwegian offshore wind technology sets its sights on Europe

Our offshore wind initiative is part of our programme for major export initiatives, High Potential Opportunities (HPO). The aim is to position Norwegian developers and suppliers to win major contracts in the offshore wind markets of France, Spain, Germany, the UK, Poland and Denmark.

'Companies in the HPO programme receive a package of services over time and the opportunity to be part of a national team. We work very closely with the embassies, Norwep, the clusters and the wider business support system – and in international markets, we work together as Team Norway. This gives us real strength when competing internationally,' says Eli Wærum Rognerud, Head of our HPO programme.

Kristiansand-based Origo Solutions is one of the companies we have supported through the programme. The technology company develops digital solutions for monitoring offshore wind farms, known as SCADA systems.

'We aim to capture a significant share of the market for larger wind power control systems, particularly in offshore wind, and become a recognised supplier. We are also exploring other markets, such as solar power and aquaculture,' says Rune Reinertsen, Marketing Director at Origo Solutions.

The company is making good progress. It has delivered a control system for the world's first floating wind farm, Hywind Scotland, and is currently delivering one for the world's largest fixed-bottom wind farm, Dogger Bank. Its focus throughout is on data-driven, integrated control, combining traditional operational technology with information technology to enable smarter, safer production.

We and the wider Team Norway network have provided them with advisory and strategic input on their international strategy, as well as support in markets such as the UK, Germany, Poland and France. We also contributed during the early stages of the technology's development.

'The funding was very useful in developing the product, but the advisory and international networks of both Innovation Norway and Norwep may be even more important. A small company like ours depends entirely on help to make connections, so we can get a foot in the door and introduce ourselves to relevant stakeholders. Doing this ourselves would have taken an enormous amount of time and resources,' says Reinertsen, adding:

- Being part of Team Norway when you join delegations and attend trade fairs is invaluable.

The technology company, established in 2011 following a merger, has extensive experience in developing safety and automation solutions for offshore and onshore facilities. Its SCADA system for floating offshore wind farms tracks all data and gives operators full control over ballast, weather conditions, anchor monitoring and other auxiliary systems.

'We are delighted to work with a forward-thinking and innovative company like Origo Solutions. We support projects that contribute to growth and value creation in Norway and internationally,' says Jon Arne Rasmussen, Senior Adviser at our Agder office.

Read more about how Origo Solutions presents its solution to international audiences on Business Norway.