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Call seeks ways to increase physical separation of technicians in confined boats
An innovation challenge is seeking rapid solutions to the problem that social distancing measures to limit the spread of Covid-19 have forced companies to cut the number of wind-energy technicians working offshore on boats by as much as 80 per cent, affecting wind-farm jobs and energy production.
The call was launched on 7 May by the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult’s O&M Centre of Excellence, together with the Knowledge Transfer Network, the offshore wind health and safety group G+ and the Workboat Association. It has a deadline of 12 June.
“Being able to operate and maintain the UK’s offshore wind fleet safely in the face of Covid-19 is essential to keep the lights on and safeguard thousands of jobs,” said Chris Hill, the catapult’s operational performance director. “It will also be vital in accelerating UK economic recovery and meeting our decarbonisation targets as we exit this crisis.”