XOcean opens USV technical centre in Ireland
XOcean has opened a Technical Centre for Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs) in Ireland.
The USV centre near Carlingford, Co. Louth, will employ 300 staff and serve international customers using autonomous and remotely operated boats monitoring offshore wind farms.
XOcean is using USV marine robotics designed and manufactured by the company in Ireland with the Technical Centre as an operational hub for the company’s growing fleet of USVs.
The company has doubled its headcount to over 200 over the past 12 months and plans to grow it further to 500 over the next two years, recruiting engineers, technicians, field operatives, data analysts, qualified mariners, geophysicists and project managers.
Using USVs offer significant benefits including safety with operators remaining onshore, efficiency with 24/7 operations and environmental with 99.9% fewer carbon emissions compared to conventional vessels which together lead to significant economic savings.
“Ireland is one of the largest maritime states in Europe and has become a global leader in the USV market and marine-tech sector. Supported by the Government through Enterprise Ireland, XOcean is a young, but truly innovative company which is offering a safe and efficient USV service with both economic and environmental efficiencies. This is a fitting example of a highly innovative Irish company based in the region, providing a jobs boost in the local area while also making an impact in the global marine-tech sector,” said Dara Calleary, minister of state.
“XOcean continues to experience rapid growth, driven largely by the major expansion of the international offshore wind market and the need for clean, renewable energy globally. XOCEAN is delighted to be supporting many of the world’s largest energy companies through the delivery of safe, cost-effective and ultra-low-impact ocean data. The future looks set to be an exciting time for XOCEAN as we continue to grow our brilliant team and our fleet of USVs to meet growing market demands,” said James Ives, CEO of XOcean.
“Enterprise Ireland works closely with Irish companies to help them build scale and expand their reach in overseas markets. XOCEAN is a fast-growing company in the marine-tech space and is a perfect example of an Irish technology company with global ambition. With plans to continue to roll out USVs in multiple sectors and markets, Enterprise Ireland looks forward to continuing to work with the XOcea team as it grows and expands internationally while creating jobs at home in the local region,” said Leo Clancy, CEO of Enterprise Ireland.
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