Belfast-based specialist software company NiSoft has secured business worth over £1m from American utility giant Xcel Energy, confirming the local company as the world’s leading supplier of safety document management systems.

Currently employing 35 people in offices in Belfast, Denver and Singapore, NiSoft provides safety solutions to process intensive industries like electricity generation, chemical, pharmaceutical and mining Industries worldwide.

The contract will see the company install and support its main product – known as ‘eclipse’ - in 36 electricity generation plants throughout the states of Minnesota, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, South Dakota and Wisconsin, over the next five years.

Commenting on the contract, Jonathan Currie, Chief Executive Officer, NiSoft, said: “NiSoft’s products and expertise have been developed over many years. It is from this strong foundation that we have achieved substantial business from such a prestigious world player. We are especially pleased with this contract, given the down turn in the global economy and the recent difficulties experienced in the software sector.

He continued: “NiSoft has been committed to developing business in the United States since the opening of our office in Denver, Colorado last year. This contract, from Xcel Energy is indeed a vote of confidence for a Northern Ireland company and testimony to the quality of our products and employee skills. Success in such a demanding market paves the way for continued expansion in the US and other overseas markets.”

David Wilks, president of Energy Supply for Xcel Energy added: “We were impressed by NiSoft’s quality product, track record and service capability and we look forward to a beneficial working partnership.” (CL)