Subsea AI and Autonomy

In the dynamic world of energy transition, where technology and sustainability converge, Unique Group stands out as a trailblazer. In this episode of the OGV Energy’s "Let’s Talk Transition" podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Martin Charles, the Group Chief Operating Officer of Unique Group, about the company's impressive journey and its pivotal role in the industry.

From Aberdeen to the UAE: Martin Charles’ Journey

Martin Charles’ career trajectory is a testament to both adaptability and expertise. Starting in Aberdeen, Charles embarked on a marine engineering apprenticeship, an experience that set the stage for a distinguished career in various sectors. His journey took him from shipyards to the drilling industry, subsea technology, and private equity before joining Unique Group in 2022.

As the COO, Charles oversees operations from the company’s headquarters in Sharjah, UAE. He has been instrumental in restructuring operations and setting the stage for growth, leveraging his extensive experience across diverse business sectors.

Unique Group: A Global Footprint in Energy Transition

Unique Group, headquartered in the UAE, boasts a significant global presence with over 620 employees across 18 sales and operations facilities worldwide. The company operates manufacturing sites in Cape Town and Sharjah, focusing on diving systems and hyperbaric oxygen therapy chambers, as well as a third site in the UK dedicated to designing and manufacturing soft fabric water weights.

The company’s footprint extends to key locations such as Houston, Singapore, Perth, India, and Europe. Notably, Unique Group recently expanded its operations with a new 2,000-square-meter facility in Saudi Arabia, reflecting its commitment to supporting the growing demands of the energy sector.

Embracing Renewables and Sustainability

A significant portion of Unique Group’s business is rooted in renewable energy and environmental markets, with 30-40% of their operations centered on these areas. The company has seen considerable growth in renewables, particularly in the UK, Europe, and Asia Pacific, and is eyeing further expansion into the Americas and other regions.

Sustainability is at the core of Unique Group’s strategy. The company has embraced the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on responsible consumption, production, and reducing carbon footprints. The introduction of autonomous vessels and other innovative technologies reflects their commitment to minimizing environmental impact and enhancing operational efficiency.

Pioneering Technologies: USVs and AI

Unique Group is at the forefront of technological innovation with its unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and advancements in artificial intelligence. The USVs, including the Uni-Mini, Uni-Pact, and Uni-Max, are designed for a variety of maritime environments and applications, from shallow reservoirs to deeper waters.

Charles highlighted a notable project involving the Uni-Mini, which was used for environmental monitoring of fish in a lagoon near Cape Town. This project exemplifies how USVs can provide valuable data while minimizing environmental disruption.

The company’s focus on AI is equally impressive. Unique Group has developed an in-house AI solution for subsea applications, aimed at improving data analysis and operational efficiency. This technology is poised to transform how data is interpreted and utilized, with beta testing underway and promising results.

The Road Ahead: Future Directions for Unique Group

Looking to the future, Unique Group is concentrating on advancing its subsea capabilities, particularly in floating offshore wind and hydrogen sectors. The company is expanding its portfolio to include advanced surveying technologies and further developing its AI applications.

Additionally, Unique Group is investing in expanding its subsea engineering capabilities, with plans for a new engineering hub in the UK. This move will enhance their ability to support complex projects and continue driving innovation in the sector.

Martin Charles’ Advice for Energy Transition Professionals

When asked about advice for others in the energy transition space, Charles emphasized the importance of staying current with technology and continuously evolving business models. He encouraged professionals to embrace innovation, take calculated risks, and remain engaged with the latest developments in the industry.

The Importance of Skills Transfer

Charles also stressed the significance of transferring skills and competencies within the industry. He believes in making the energy transition real and actionable by developing talent internally and fostering curiosity and commitment among team members. His efforts at Unique Group reflect this philosophy, focusing on building a cohesive, skilled team ready to tackle future challenges.

Conclusion

Martin Charles’ insights into Unique Group’s operations, innovations, and future plans underscore the company’s role as a leader in the energy transition. From pioneering technologies like USVs and AI to committing to sustainability and expanding global operations, Unique Group is making significant strides in shaping the future of the energy industry.

As we navigate the complex landscape of energy transition, Charles’ experience and advice offer valuable guidance for professionals striving to drive progress and make a meaningful impact in the field.