ExoTechnologies, a pioneering maritime green technology startup, has recently delivered a high-performance, fully recyclable workboat to Orbital Marine Power to aid its offshore operations. Constructed at the Ultimate Boats yard in Glasgow, the vessel is crafted from ExoTechnologies’ innovative DANUTM composite material and is tailored for the rigorous sea conditions around Orkney.
This vessel will primarily serve to transport engineers to and from Orbital Marine Power’s O2 turbine, which is recognised as the world’s most powerful tidal turbine. The O2 represents a significant advancement in tidal energy technology, being the product of over 15 years of development and testing in Orkney. It is designed to dramatically reduce the cost of energy derived from tidal currents and can generate sufficient electricity to power around 2,000 UK homes annually while offsetting about 2,200 tonnes of CO2 each year.
The 11-meter O-class Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RIB) includes features such as a wheelhouse, shock mitigation units, and a substantial operating range of 450 nautical miles. It also incorporates ExoHullTM technology, a cutting-edge design by John Moxham that enhances the boat’s efficiency and stability in water, leading to fuel savings and reduced environmental impact.
CEO Shane Mugan of ExoTechnologies highlighted the workboat as part of their broader initiative to address the ecological impact of traditional fiberglass usage in boat manufacturing, promoting a shift towards more sustainable, recyclable materials that can support the transition to a circular economy. This delivery underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and its contribution towards developing renewable marine industry solutions.
In addition to the new workboat, Ultimate Boats’ range includes various high-performance models designed for different maritime operations, demonstrating the company’s ongoing efforts to meet the demands of both commercial and leisure sectors in challenging marine environments.
