Energy Systems for Mission-Critical Performance

In 1996, Neale Kemp (Retired) and Jason Aspin (CEO) established Aspin Kemp & Associates (Now known as AKA Energy Systems) as a technical documentation company with its headquarters in Owen Sound, Ontario.

In 2000, AKA expanded its expertise by venturing into engineering solutions, deploying tech on Transocean’s express-class rigs, marking a significant milestone in its diversified offerings.

AKA introduced the Integrated Documentation System (IDS) in 2001, a system providing a comprehensive package detailing engineering scope and integrating all vendor equipment, ensuring streamlined processes.

In the year 2003, AKA started developing the Advanced Generator Protection (AGP) system, a groundbreaking solution that intended to enhance the efficiency and reliability of power systems.

In 2004, AKA achieved a significant feat by installing Advanced Generator Protection on a commercial rig, the Sedco Express. The Advanced Generator Protection (AGP) protects power plants by detecting and responding to voltage and speed control faults in generators to prevent potential blackouts during parallel operations.

AKA made history in 2009 by fitting the world’s first marine hybrid propulsion system on a harbour tugboat – Carolyn Dorothy by Foss Maritime Company, pioneering eco-friendly solutions in the maritime industry.

AKA achieved a breakthrough in 2011 with the successful completion of the world’s first live short circuit test on a drill-ship - the Deepwater Champion. AKA has been conducting live short circuit tests on drill-ships and other vessels around the world since.

AKA relocated its headquarters to Montague, Prince Edward Island in 2011, establishing a strategic base for its continued growth and expansion. AKA’s Manufacturing Centre is based in Prince Edward Island as well.

AKA and KOTUG International launch RT Adriaan – Europe’s first hybrid tugboat. RT Adriaan entered operation in the Port of Rotterdam as an “e-KOTUG”, retrofitted with AKA’s Hybrid Propulsion System.

In 2014, AKA became the first company to deliver DNV-approved DP2/3 closed-bus operation systems, setting new standards in marine engineering. Transocean’s Deepwater Asgard was the first to operate with a closed bus approved by DNV, with several others since.

A landmark moment occurred in 2015 when the Deepwater Thalassa entered operation with the world’s first hybrid drill floor designed and installed by AKA - revolutionizing drilling operations.

AKA and MAN Diesel & Turbo established a new partnership, with MAN acquiring a 40% stake in AKA, as co-founder and CEO, Jason Aspin remained the controlling shareholder The partnership aimed to enhance AKA’s innovation and expand its market presence alongside MAN.

In 2017, the Bhagwan Dryden achieved certification as the world’s first vessel with an Intrinsically Safe Egress mode of operation – with an AKA hybrid power system. This mode minimizes ignition risk in a gas cloud by switching off the vessel diesel generators, relying solely on the vessel’s energy storage for power and propulsion.

AKA made history in 2019 retrofitting the world’s first hybrid propulsion system on a mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU), the Transocean Spitsbergen. AKA completed this retrofit while the vessel remained in operation to eliminate down time.

AKA’s manufacturing center operates sustainably by harnessing solar energy and efficiently stores and distributes that energy through AKA’s Smart Microgrid, exemplifying the company’s commitment to environmentally responsible practices.

AKA was selected as the Single System Integrator (SSI) for the diesel electric propulsion system of a new Near Shore Fisheries Research Vessel (NSFRV), the first battery hybrid vessel to join the Canadian fleet.

AKA continued its legacy of innovation in 2022 by designing and building North America’s First Hybrid Fishing Boat, further diversifying its portfolio in hybrid power systems. AKA’s Hybrid 1 is now owned and operated by the Passamaquoddy First Nation.

AKA completed Atlantic Canada’s to date largest solar power plant, the Summerside Sunbank Project. AKA installed over 46,000+ solar panels, a Smart Microgrid, and a Battery Energy Storage System across 80 acres of land. This will supply around 25% of the city’s electrical needs.