TechWorks and Subsea UK sign collaboration agreement

Subsea UK and TechWorks, the UK’s industry association for the deep tech community, have signed a collaboration agreement covering the development of underwater technology.

Described as ‘NASA but on the seabed’, the underwater engineering industry, represented by Subsea UK, uses technology and services to unlock energy resources in oil and gas and offshore wind production.

With annual revenues of almost £8bn and supporting 45,000 jobs, the underwater sector in the UK is extending into emerging sectors such as marine renewables and aquaculture.

Commenting Alan Banks, Chief Executive of TechWorks said, “The Deep Tech industries in the UK are going through unprecedented change and the best way to overcome the challenges and capitalise on the opportunities we face, is by joining forces with likeminded organisations. Subsea UK is an example of where the likeminded thinking and collaborative spirit will make us stronger as we work together to forge stronger links between our sector, there are many examples of where the technologies being developed and the scientific, engineering and design thinking challenges being overcome in the UK are applicable in both of our sectors”.

Neil Gordon, chief executive of Subsea UK, added, “The electronics industry, like the subsea industry, is often hidden from view. For example, the electronic systems in a car or the subsea infrastructure on the seabed, are largely unseen but critical to the functioning of a vehicle or the production of energy offshore.

“It quickly became apparent that we could work collaboratively to help the supply chain grow, enhancing UK capabilities in both industries and, through a joined-up supply chain strategy have more impact and more meaningful engagement with government.

“The technologies being developed by the electronics industry in, for example, electric vehicles drive systems, battery storage and navigation are very relevant in the advancement of underwater robotics and underwater artificial intelligence. In essence, working together, we can learn from and collaborate with the electronics industry to develop new advanced technologies for underwater operations.”

TechWorks said that the agreement was intended to strengthen the UK’s deep tech capabilities as a global leader of future technologies and this agreement with Subsea UK is being described as a strategic landmark for TechWorks, as it continues to grow and explore new opportunities with organisations looking to develop and shape future advanced technologies.