Iberdrola is on the lookout for startups to provide advanced inspection and digitisation services for its offshore wind farms, using autonomous or remote-controlled technologies.
The Spanish energy company said that the startups will join its PERSEO programme to offer comprehensive inspection solutions.
These solutions should include 3D modelling or digital twins and on-site preventive maintenance and repair capabilities for turbines, substations, jackets, foundations, subsea cables.
The focus is on utilising autonomous or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and inspection systems for various offshore wind farm components, as offshore environments are often harsh and experience extreme weather conditions.
Startups interested in collaborating with the company can submit their proposals for consideration, the company said.
The selected company will have the opportunity to test their solutions with PERSEO or another Iberdrola entity, which will fund the testing activities and provide necessary technical support.
This includes real data environment testing, access to tools, equipment, infrastructure, and shared workspaces.
The project will be carried out in partnership with Iberdrola's specialised technicians from its renewables and offshore divisions.
Should the trials prove successful, Iberdrola may offer commercial agreements to scale the solution. Additionally, PERSEO may consider investing in the participating company or the winning solution.
Since its inception in 2008, the PERSEO programme has invested over €175m in startups that contribute to the sustainability of the energy sector.
The investments focus on electrification and decarbonisation of the economy, analysing business opportunities and fostering technological collaboration globally.
Iberdrola has earmarked about €15.5bn for renewable investments between 2024 and 2026, with 54% directed towards offshore wind projects in the US, the UK, France, and Germany.
The company recently achieved a significant milestone by installing the first of 50 turbines at the Baltic Eagle offshore wind farm in the German Baltic Sea, a joint venture with Masdar.
The installation of the remaining 49 turbines is planned for the second half of 2024.
