Aberdeen-based Sparrows Group has cemented its position in the renewable-energy sector by acquiring Danish wind-energy specialist Alpha Offshore Service A/S.

The latter provides engineering personnel and inspection services to the energy industry, specialising in the delivery of operations and maintenance, plus supervisory and commissioning services, to onshore and offshore wind-power developments. It will continue to be run by the existing management team.

Sparrows’ engineering and design capability in structural, mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and reliability disciplines, combined with its extensive global network, will enhance Alpha’s existing capability and international presence.

In addition to renewable energy, the acquisition bolsters the diversity of Sparrows’ technical capability in the oil and gas and industrial sectors.

Sparrows (www.sparrowsgroup.com) CEO Stewart Mitchell said: “Alpha Offshore is a trusted supplier to a number of wind farm operators and turbine OEMs.

“Its specialist in-depth knowledge and experience of services such as blade and turbine generator repairs, inspections and upgrades makes it a valuable addition to our group.

“We expect demand for its services to continue to grow, as wind developments age and equipment warranty periods expire.”

Alpha Offshore CEO Mikkel Lund said: “Being part of the Sparrows Group delivers many advantages for us and our customers, as we look to expand into new regions.

“Its world-wide footprint gives us access to skilled technicians all over the globe and will provide many opportunities, particularly in the USA and Asia.

“The synergies between the organisations allow us to support each other’s plans for diversification and geographical expansion.”

In February last year, Sparrows announced its largest renewable-energy contract to date: the supply of 103 turbine platform cranes for the East Anglia One offshore wind farm.