Les saken på norsk

Statnett continues to enhance its use of autonomous technology to improve the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of its operations. As part of this strategy, the company has signed an agreement with Trondheim-based Maritime Robotics to acquire the Otter Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV)—a cutting-edge autonomous platform for high-precision seabed mapping and data collection.

“The Otter USV is a versatile and user-friendly tool that gives us access to high-quality data in areas that are otherwise difficult to survey,” says Tore Korsnes, Drone Technology Specialist at Statnett. “It allows us to perform seabed surveys close to quay structures and in shallow waters without needing to deploy larger vessels.”

Tore Korsnes, droneteknolog Statnett. Photo: Statnett

Improving Safety and Reducing Operational Risk

One of the primary applications for the Otter USV will be mapping seabed conditions at quay locations where Statnett’s vessel, M/S Elektron, is moored. These surveys help ensure safe and efficient docking operations. Additionally, the USV will be used to conduct seabed inspections along subsea cable corridors, providing crucial data to support maintenance and protection of critical infrastructure.

“With autonomous solutions like the Otter USV, we reduce the need for manual inspections and the use of larger survey vessels,” says Espen Blomlie, Head of Statnett’s Drone Center. “This not only improves safety by limiting exposure for personnel, but also reduces costs and environmental impact.”

A Flexible Platform for Environmental Monitoring

Beyond infrastructure inspections, the Otter USV will play an important role in environmental monitoring and sediment analysis. The system is equipped with high-resolution multibeam echo sounders and advanced positioning technology, making it ideal for hydrographic surveys and data collection in challenging conditions.

“The quality of the data we collect is essential for decision-making. With the Otter USV, we have a flexible tool that helps us monitor seabed conditions and changes over time, ensuring that we can take preventive measures when needed,” explains Korsnes.

Geir Solem, Maritime Robotics. Photo: BERRE

Supporting Statnett’s Technology and Sustainability Strategy

The investment in the Otter USV aligns with Statnett’s broader goal of integrating innovative technologies that support a more resilient and sustainable power grid.

“In essence, Statnett's acquisition of the Maritime Robotics Otter USV marks a significant advancement in their subsea infrastructure management,” says Geir Solem, CSO of Maritime Robotics.

“The Otter's portability and autonomy offer enhanced efficiency and safety for survey operations across diverse locations. Its eco-friendly electric propulsion aligns with sustainability goals, while the versatile payload integration allows for tailored mapping capabilities. Compared to traditional methods, the Otter provides a cost-effective and efficient solution for various subsea tasks. This strategic investment positions Statnett to improve operational efficiency, data quality, and safety in managing their crucial underwater assets. Ultimately, the Otter empowers Statnett to ensure infrastructure reliability, support renewable energy growth, and operate sustainably in the evolving landscape of subsea operations.”, Solem says.

By utilizing autonomous technology, Statnett continues to lead the way in modernizing infrastructure management—delivering benefits for safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.

About Statnett

Statnett is responsible for Norway's national power grid, ensuring a secure and stable electricity supply across the country. The company invests in new technologies and innovative solutions to meet future energy demands and support the transition to a more sustainable energy supply.

About Maritime Robotics

Maritime Robotics develops and manufactures autonomous and remotely operated solutions for maritime surveillance, mapping, and data collection. The company is a member of the Ocean Autonomy Cluster and an incubator company in the FI Ocean Space Incubator, where it continues to develop its autonomous systems to meet the needs of the maritime market.

Maritime Robotic's USV Otter. Photo: Lars Bugge Aarset/Ocean Autonomy Cluster

Do you want to know more?

Tore Korsnes, droneteknolog Statnett
Mobile: +47  91  944  83
tore.korsnes@statnett.no 
statnett.no 

Espen Andreas Blomlie, Seksjonsleder nett/beredskapsoppdrag, Statnett SF
Mobile: +47 924 39 211
espen.blomlie@statnett.no 
statnett.no 

Geir Solem, CSO of Maritime Robotics
Mobile +47 9528 7775
geir.solem@maritimerobotics.com 
maritimerobotics.com