How Stowen is pioneering progress in offshore energy

This initial project laid the groundwork for Stowen’s continuous commitment to safety, efficiency and client satisfaction – a commitment that remains steadfast to this day. Over the years, the company has experienced exponential growth and success within the East of England, establishing strong partnerships with several clients in the region’s burgeoning energy sector.

Stowen’s core services encompass a comprehensive range of offerings tailored to meet the diverse needs of offshore energy projects.

From one-off inspections to large-scale construction operations, Stowen is able to pull on an experienced management team in delivering inspection and integrity, maintenance, construction and project management under a single contract.

Success in Scotland

In 2022, a significant opportunity emerged, propelling Stowen into an exciting new venture within Scotland’s offshore wind industry.

Successfully securing an inspection framework agreement for the Beatrice Offshore Wind Farm, a fully operational site consisting of 84 turbines, Stowen showcased its technical prowess and readiness to tackle the unique challenges of overseeing projects in demanding locations.

A map showing Stowen’s projects in Scotland (Image: Stowen)
Collaborating with SSE enabled Stowen to seize the opportunities presented by Scotland’s investment in sustainable offshore energy solutions.

Expanding on its achievements in Scotland, Stowen’s trajectory continued its upward climb in 2023 with the acquisition of framework agreements for the Moray West Offshore Wind Farm – a significant project owned by Ocean Winds, a joint venture between ENGIE and EDP Renewables.

Comprising of 60 turbines, the project is poised to provide power to approximately 650,000 UK homes upon its scheduled completion in 2025. Stowen also secured a statutory inspection and maintenance contract, alongside an ad/hoc framework agreement for dynamic labour solutions, further highlighting its adaptability and drive for excellence in asset management.

Starting with just one team member, Stowen’s Scottish team has grown to include a team of dedicated staff members, demonstrating the company’s commitment to investing in local talent and fostering community development.

Inspection manager James MacDonald said: “We aim to empower local talent by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to start their career in the offshore wind sector whilst bolstering the existing employees’ future within the north of Scotland.”

Stowen has also established an operational base in Inverness, enabling it to strengthen relationships with local partners, enhance responsiveness to client needs and actively contribute to the economic development of the region.

James MacDonald, inspection manager at Stowen (Image: Stowen)

In addition to building a strong team and infrastructure, Stowen places a high priority on utilising local resources and materials whenever feasible. By sourcing materials locally, Stowen not only ensures a more sustainable and efficient supply chain, but also supports the growth and development of local industries.

This approach aligns with Stowen’s broader commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.

More to come

Looking ahead to 2024, Stowen is continuing its trajectory of growth and success, recently securing a new inspection framework agreement with Transmission Investment, a prominent independent transmission business in the UK.

The contract underscores Stowen’s focus on delivering comprehensive inspection and maintenance services for Transmission Investment’s offshore substation on Moray East. It also marks another significant milestone for Stowen, further enhancing its capability to meet the evolving demands of the offshore energy sector.

Stowen is launching its ‘I Companion’ app in May 2024 (Image: Stowen)

As Stowen continues to expand its presence and influence, it remains committed to its core values of safety, respect and ownership.

By fostering long-term partnerships and driving meaningful engagement with local communities, it aims to create a lasting legacy of positive impact in the sector.

Investing in technology

In line with its commitment to safety, Stowen is launching a new app in May 2024.

The ‘I Companion’ app is tailored for offshore wind enthusiasts, offering comprehensive insights into the inspection and maintenance of wind components.

Users can try their hand at quizzes, stay updated with the latest industry news and access training bookings via Hexis, a division of the Stowen Group.

For more information, visit stowengroup.com