Daughter craft can meet growing demand for offshore wind vessels in challenging environments across Europe and APAC, according to a report from Chartwell Marine.

As the offshore wind industry scales to meet ambitious capacity targets, there is a growing demand for vessels that can operate effectively in environments far from shore, Chartwell Marine’s report said.

“To complement CTVs and SOVs and help meet growing vessel demand, the offshore wind industry urgently needs an innovative solution. For too long, we’ve taken a bigger-is-better approach to vessel procurement, but it’s time for us to ‘scale down to scale up,” said Andy Page, Chartwell’s founder and managing director.

By integrating the core strengths of CTVs into a smaller, more adaptable vessel, Chartwell argues next-generation daughter craft will create significant efficiencies for offshore wind vessel operations across the following areas:  

Transporting crews quickly, comfortable and safely around offshore wind farms from SOV motherships anchored on site – eliminating the conventional 2-hour CTV roundtrip to and from shore.

Maximizing the reach of an on-site SOV, by enabling technicians to simultaneously service multiple wind turbines, cutting overall deployment times substantially.

Providing a designated safe refuge or emergency rescue option in situations where the SOV is required to operate beyond a 2-hour safe recovery range.

Acting as a temporary nearshore CTV, taking on less demanding logistical charters for wind farms located closer to shore.

“Working with Chartwell Marine to create the ultimate offshore wind daughter craft has been an absolute pleasure,” said Andrew Duncan, North Star renewables and innovations director.

Daughter craft, on average, can be built for around 25% of the cost of a typical CTV and take 6-8 months to build – half the time of a traditional CTV.  Furthermore, they can be built efficiently by local boatyards using standardized construction kits and off-the-shelf components – helping to satisfy local content requirements in APAC and other markets. 

More info: www.chartwellmarine.com

North Star, a service operation vessel operator in Europe’s offshore wind sector, has become the first organization to have ships achieve Lloyd’s Register’s Cyber Resilience classification, in line with mandatory International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) standards implemented for all newbuilds beginning July 2024.

North Star’s new commissioning service operation vessels (CSOVs), the Grampian Kestrel and Grampian Eagle, gain stronger ability to withstand cyberattacks, continue operating under threat, and recover quickly from incidents, ensuring the protection of personnel and onboard systems, while maintaining critical offshore operations.

These CSOVs are the first in the world to be formally approved by Lloyd’s Register to the LR Rules implementing IACS standards UR E26 (‘Cyber Resilience of Ships’) and UR E27 (‘Cyber Resilience of Onboard Systems and Equipment’).

They represent North Star’s first CSOV additions to its growing renewables fleet in its ambition to add 40 SOVs by 2040.“Being the first to certify our newbuilds under these new IACS standards demonstrates our commitment to safe, smart, and sustainable offshore operations. Working in partnership with VARD and Lloyd’s Register has been instrumental to this process, and I’m very proud of North Star’s IT and special projects team’s drive to advance our CSOVs’ cyber resilience, positioning us ahead of the curve as the sector evolves. We’re ready to support the next phase of Europe’s offshore wind growth, and we’re doing it with trust, security, and future-proof thinking built in from the keel up,” said Gard Talmo, North Star CEO.

“Cyber resilience is no longer optional, it’s essential. That’s why our newbuilds are equipped to withstand, recover from, and adapt to cyber incidents,” said James Bradford, North Star chief technology officer.

More info: www.northstarshipping.co.uk/

Clearway Energy Group and Clearway Energy, Inc. has completed its acquisition of the Tuolumne Wind Project in Klickitat County, Wash. The 137 MW wind farm has a strong operating history and generates enough reliable electricity to power over 44,000 homes every year.

“We are thrilled to expand our investment in Washington state and provide reliable, low-cost power to homes and businesses on the West Coast,” said John Woody, Senior Vice President of Development at Clearway. “We look forward to our long-term partnership with the Turlock Irrigation District through this project.”

As a result of this acquisition, Clearway will contribute $1.3 million in annual sales and property taxes to Klickitat County to support local schools, hospitals, and other public services.

Located along the Columbia River, the project site has been recognized as one of the most productive wind resource areas in the western U.S. The project will sell power under an amended agreement with Turlock Irrigation District, with an initial 15-year contract term and the option for a future repowering, potentially extending the project’s lifespan by upgrading turbine components. 

This acquisition represents a $60 million investment in Washington, where Clearway’s existing footprint includes the 160 MW Rattlesnake Flat wind farm in Adams County.

Clearway Energy, Inc.’s portfolio comprises around 11.8 GW of gross generating capacity in 26 states, including 9.1 GW of wind, solar, and battery energy storage assets, and over 2.8 GW of conventional dispatchable power generation providing critical grid reliability services.

More info: www.clearwayenergygroup.com

American Wire Group has appointed Neal Hamer as the company’s Director of Engineering – Power Equipment.

Hamer will be responsible for driving AWG’s technical strategy and expanding the in-house engineering capabilities to support the growing power equipment segment. His role includes conducting a thorough assessment of AWG’s current technical landscape across transformers, switchgear, and substation solutions, while aligning supplier specifications with industry standards such as IEEE, ANSI, NERC, and UL.

Hamer will be part of the development and scaling of the engineering team—including field, applications, and project engineers—to support sales, project execution, and customer needs.

Mr. Hamer has spent the last decade at Invenergy, where he most recently served as their Electrical Engineering Director. In that role, he led a large team supporting the development and commissioning of renewable energy projects. He brings deep expertise in emergency fault troubleshooting, preventative maintenance for high-voltage equipment, and generation control systems.

“We are excited to welcome Neal to our team as Director of Engineering for all power equipment,” said Norman Russell, Chief Revenue Officer at AWG. “At AWG, we’re constantly thinking about the future of the organization and how to better align ourselves with our customers’ needs—both in terms of scale and the types of solutions we deliver.

With Neal joining our team, AWG has strengthened its position as a single source solution and industry leader for all wire, cable, hardware, equipment and accessories—making it easier and more efficient for our customers to execute projects efficiently and confidently.”

More info: www.buyawg.com

Crane Service Inc. purchased an LG 1800-1.0 lattice boom crane at Bauma 2025, the construction trade show. This purchase further strengthens the partnership between the two companies and expands the capabilities of Crane Service Inc. for its customers.

Crane Service Inc. has served as a leader in the crane industry since 1960 and operates in 35 states spanning the contiguous United States. With a fleet including more than 15 different models of Liebherr cranes, Crane Service Inc. provides full service heavy lift and rigging solutions across a range of applications. This machine will be the third LG 1800-1.0 in its fleet and is set to work on wind farm sites assisting with maintenance and construction of wind turbines across the nation.

Liebherr lattice boom cranes have been enhanced for use in the wind industry with a large selection of boom configurations allowing for use on the latest generation of wind turbines. This, paired with the all-terrain chassis built into all Liebherr LG cranes, gives operators maneuverability on site as well as an ideal configuration.

The LG 1800-1.0 also comes equipped with WindSpeed load charts, increasing safety and allowing operators to perform lifts in conditions with higher wind speeds with peace of mind.

More info: www.craneserviceinc.com | www.liebherr.com

The VIKING YouSafe™ Cyclone suit joins a growing portfolio of VIKING PPE whose fit and features reflect the safety needs of female seafarers, pilots, and technicians in the marine and offshore industries.

The most recent U.K. Government Industrial Strategy Offshore Wind Sector Deal study included a “minimum target” for one third of the industry’s workforce to be by 2030. In U.K. waters, and elsewhere, getting the right PPE in place to best serve the safety needs of women offshore has become a focus for equity and inclusivity strategy at Ørsted, Siemens, and Vestas.

“As a young industry, offshore wind offers a huge opportunity to change attitudes in the workplace, and to encourage the diversity, equity, and inclusion women are entitled to expect,” said Lasse Hansen, Senior HSE Manager, PPE and TMSE, Ørsted. “Ørsted has identified female-specific PPE as part of the critical infrastructure we need for women to work safely offshore today and a necessity to attract more of them into this industry. We were delighted to work with VIKING as one of our key safety solution providers to take a significant step in the right direction.”

Delivered in high-vis GORE-TEX® NARVIK™, the female-fit YouSafe™ Cyclone suit is approved to the same dual SOLAS/MED and CE/ISO standard as the male version and is available in multiple sizes. Common features include compatibility with all standard offshore harnesses, durable Neoprene cuffs and neck seal, retro-reflective piping for increased visibility in dark surroundings, and a maintenance free zipper.

However, ratios and cut are redesigned for shorter torsos and different hip and chest proportions and for a range of smaller sizes that avoid the risk of snagging in fixtures and fittings. The sleek-looking design also offers a high level of comfort and enhances the safety of women when stepping or jumping to/off the platform, climbing the tower, or moving around the nacelle. In addition, the suit includes integral braces, which hold suit pants for free leg movement when climbing and allow the wearer to doff its top part to move around freely.

Poul Parning, Senior EQS PPE Specialist, Siemens Gamesa said the Cyclone suit was a welcome contribution to its efforts to attract more women to offshore wind, ensuring that outdated practices did not frustrate career progress.

“There has been an intense focus on PPE as a diversity, equity, and inclusion issue at Siemens Gamesa for the last two years; we have already adopted a new safety harness for women. The Cyclone CTV suit supports corporate goals,” he said.

“At Vestas, we believe that diversity and inclusion go hand-in-hand with innovation, and that everyone must feel safe, valued, and that their voice is heard,” said Peter Armstrong-Cribb, Vestas Wind Systems, HSE Manager. “The right PPE puts these beliefs into practice.”

VIKING built on its internal design work by interviewing women working offshore in the wind industry to develop the new suit before trialing prototypes at a test day with Ørsted, Siemens, and Vestas in Liverpool, U.K. earlier this year. After further tests offshore and customer feedback, the YouSafe™ Cyclone was launched in October.

“Bringing Cyclone to market has been a joy because we have worked with customers whose competitive position did not stand in the way of our common goal to deliver a safety necessity and level the playing field for women working offshore,” said Bettina Kjærgaard, Global Sales Manager Offshore Wind, VIKING Life-Saving Equipment. “Their response in spreading the word has also been phenomenal.”

More info: www.VIKING-life.com

WindEurope’s Board of Directors has elected Henrik Andersen, Group President and CEO of Vestas, as the association’s new chair for an 18-month term. WindEurope is the industry association representing more than 600 companies and 300,000 jobs from across the whole value chain of wind energy in Europe.

Henrik Andersen’s term as Chair for WindEurope comes at a time for the wind industry when Europe is accelerating its energy transformation and seeking to strengthen its industrial competitiveness. During the term it is expected that several important regulatory packages will be finalized, passed and implemented on a national level.

“We are in a defining moment for Europe’s future. We need an industry and an energy source that can deliver home-grown, secure and affordable energy, while strengthening Europe’s competitiveness. Wind energy can contribute to all of this, and now is the time for Europe to bolster its wind industry. The European Commission and member states have set high targets, but this momentum must translate ambition into implementation. I am honored to serve as Chair of WindEurope in this crucial time for Europe and for wind energy. I extend my thanks to the WindEurope members for trusting in me as your chair for the coming eighteen months,” said Andersen.

As chair, Andersen has three key priorities to ensure a strong and independent European wind industry:

Drive European competitiveness: Wind is central to competing in Europe and is the right tool to deliver energy independence, affordability and security.

Accelerate electrification: The business case for electrification must improve, and directional policies (such as the Clean Industrial Deal) must be translated into implementation.

Strengthen wind’s market environment: Permitting efficiencies, economically viable wind projects and improved grid infrastructure are critical.

The WindEurope Board also elected Rasmus Errboe, Ørsted’s group president and CEO, as its new vice-chair.

MORE INFO  www.vestas.com

Vestas has secured a 495 MW order from Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) for the Fengmiao I offshore wind project off the coast of Taichung, Taiwan.

The order includes 33 V236-15.0 MW turbines as well as a long-term comprehensive service agreement designed to ensure performance of the assets. This order marks Vestas’ first firm order for its industry-leading V236-15.0 MW turbine in Taiwan.

“We are honored to deepen our partnership with CIP on the Fengmiao I project, our inaugural venture in Taiwan featuring the V236-15.0 MW turbine. This project marks the start of construction for Taiwan’s first Round 3 offshore wind project and reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative clean energy solutions and supporting Taiwan’s ambitious renewable energy goals. By leveraging our world-class technology and operational expertise, we aim to contribute significantly to the region’s sustainable energy infrastructure and drive the growth of offshore wind energy in Asia Pacific,” said Purvin Patel, President of Vestas Asia Pacific.

“We are proud to collaborate with Vestas for the third time in Taiwan, and even more so to be the first to deploy their cutting-edge V236-15.0 MW turbine,” said Mark Wainwright, Fengmiao I Project CEO. “This milestone reflects our ambition to lead with innovation and set new benchmarks in performance, reliability, and sustainability. We are confident that, together, we will deliver the Fengmiao I project on schedule, safely, and to the highest standards. We look forward to playing a key role in supporting Taiwan’s energy transition and long-term renewable energy goals.”

The construction of the Fengmiao I offshore wind farm is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027.

Vestas’ flagship offshore wind turbine, the V236-15.0 MW is built on proven technology and received its type certification in 2023. Since its launch, Vestas has secured more than 7 GW of firm orders, proving the turbine variant’s competitiveness across offshore markets.

MORE INFO  www.vestas.com

OEG Energy Group Limited, a leading energy solutions business, announced that Specialist Marine Consultants Ltd, one of the companies in its topside division, has been awarded a three-year contract by Ørsted to deliver crane and lift servicing, lifting inspection and maintenance support across its German offshore wind cluster, comprising six wind farms.

The topside division has held the original framework agreement since 2020. This new award commenced in January 2025 and includes options for two additional one-year extensions.

Ørsted has invested billions in Germany’s energy transition, building and operating five offshore wind farms in the North Sea and adding one more by 2026. Together, these projects will generate enough green electricity to power around 2.5 million German households annually.

Under the agreement, OEG’s operations and maintenance (O&M) technicians will inspect a total of 337 turbines across the cluster, operating from a vessel provided by Ørsted and mobilized from the Port of Emden.

The scope of work covers comprehensive inspections of lifting equipment, cranes, service lifts, and associated electrical and mechanical components. It also includes safety-critical checks on anchor points, ladders, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and evacuation equipment. In addition, OEG will provide crane and lifting support for minor repairs and troubleshooting as needed.

“Winning this contract is a testament to the exceptional service and reliability our team has consistently delivered over the past four years,” said Dean Coates, OEG’s topside division operations director.

“We look forward to continuing our work in the German offshore wind sector, helping to support sustainable energy development with precision and care.”

“Over the last 15 years, Ørsted has built strong relationships with suppliers from across the UK who have helped us to deliver our offshore wind farms. In the past five years alone, 242 UK suppliers have secured major contracts with us, with many hundreds more supported indirectly to help build and maintain our offshore wind farms – including opportunities to export skills and services to support our projects around the globe,” said Michaela Gregory, Ørsted’s O&M services procurement lead category manager.

OEG is a leader in specialist subsea, topside, and marine services for offshore wind projects. The firm leverages its global expertise and strong local teams to maximize value for regional stakeholders.

MORE INFO  https://www.oeg.group/

The EDP Group has reached a milestone of 15 gigawatts (GW) of contracted power purchase agreements with some of the world’s largest corporations and utilities. EDP Renewables North America contributed to more than 11 GWs or 73% of the group’s achievement. This milestone signifies EDP’s commitment to the North American market, strong track record over the past two decades, and the partnerships that have been established over the years.

As one of the top five owners and operators of renewable energy in the U.S., EDPR NA’s newest portfolio additions are spread across 21 projects delivering wind, solar, and battery storage powered capacity to its customer base. Offtakers include major utilities, big tech and data centers, industrial companies, and manufacturers, among others.

Notable projects recently launched by EDPR NA in tandem with these PPAs include:

Scarlet I Solar Energy Park: EDPR NA unveiled its 200 MW Scarlet I Solar Energy Park in Fresno County, Calif.

Ragsdale Solar Park: EDPR NA launched the 100 MW Ragsdale Solar Park in Canton, Miss., by executing a PPA with Amazon for 100% of the power produced by the project.

Brittlebush Solar Park: EDPR NA completed the 200 MW Brittlebush Solar Park near Coolidge, Ariz., with PPAs for the Salt River Project and Meta. The project’s total capacity is dedicated to supporting Meta’s data center in Mesa, Ariz.

Hickory, Wolf Run, and Cattlemen II Solar Projects: EDPR NA completed three utility-scale solar projects totaling 400 MW in Jacksonville and Jerseyville, Illinois, and near Austin, Tex. Microsoft agreed to purchase 389 MW of electricity from these three projects.

Sandrini I & II Solar Parks: EDPR NA completed the Sandrini I & II Solar Parks in Kern County, Calif. Sandrini I has a 15-year PPA with Shell Energy North America while Sandrini II has a 15-year PPA with Redwood Coast Energy Authority.

EDPR NA developed 2 GW of utility scale projects in 2024 and is expected to go live with 1 GW of new projects in the coming months. Much of the power produced will serve big tech customers.

MORE INFO  www.edpr.com/north-america

StormGeo, a leader in weather intelligence and decision-support services for the energy and shipping industries and part of Alfa Laval, has launched its new e-learning platform designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of offshore energy industry professionals. This new online resource aims to make learning about weather forecasting and safety accessible, engaging and interactive.

“Weather is one of the biggest challenges for offshore operations, so we believe it’s crucial to equip professionals with the right tools and knowledge,” said Maria Pedrosa, Head of Training Services at StormGeo. “Our new E-Learning platform aims to help individuals make better weather-related decisions, improving safety and operational efficiency.”

The platform offers weather safety courses tailored to offshore oil and gas and offshore wind operations. These CPD-approved courses will teach participants how to interpret marine weather forecasts accurately, recognize potential adverse weather conditions, and identify safe operational weather windows—crucial competencies for making informed decisions in real-world offshore environments.

The launch of the e-Learning platform reflects StormGeo’s continued focus on developing innovative and high-quality weather intelligence solutions. By providing accessible training, StormGeo is helping offshore energy professionals make safer and more informed decisions in an industry shaped by constant change and weather-related risks.

MORE INFO  www.stormgeo.com

Oceantic Network recently announced the speaker lineup for the Opening Plenary at its 2025 International Partnering Forum (IPF), the largest offshore renewables conference in the Americas. Key speakers will include Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston as well as influential offshore wind leaders including Dominion Energy Senior Vice President of Project Construction Mark Mitchell, LS Cable & System Ltd. President and CEO Bon-Kyu Koo, and RWE President and CEO Samuel Eaton. Government leaders speaking will include Virginia Beach Mayor Bob Dyer. Speakers will address how the industry will continue to “power ON” in the face of uncertainty.

IPF will be April 28-May 1 in Virginia Beach. The conference will welcome thousands of attendees from around the world and across America. The Opening Plenary will be April 29, and, for the first time, 2025 IPF will host the Ocean Renewables Summit, dedicated to additional offshore renewable energy sources, including tidal, wave, and floating solar. The conference will also feature a Central Atlantic Supplier Fair, designed to foster strong business-to-business connections by bringing attendees together with regional developers, Tier 1 suppliers, and OEMs, and Oceantic Network’s Ventus Gala.

“With our first offshore wind projects in the water, this American energy industry is ready to Power ON,” said Liz Burdock, CEO at Oceantic Network. “This year’s Opening Plenary will highlight the significant progress we’ve made across America’s 40-state, $25 billion supply chain and chart the path forward for continued offshore renewable energy development in the U.S., Canada, and beyond.”

Plenary speakers will discuss offshore wind power’s global impact, the resulting revitalization of U.S. industry, and the benefits the industry is bringing to local communities like those in Virginia. Other sessions will highlight Virginia’s swift progress as a significant hub in the American offshore wind industry. The region is witnessing a surge of offshore wind companies establishing operations, with existing suppliers having expanded to support local projects. 2025 IPF will take place with these developments right in its backyard, with local tours to give attendees an up-close view of the largest offshore wind farm in the country as its backdrop.

“Oceantic Network’s International Partnering Forum is a great opportunity for networking and building relationships to create economic development and job opportunities in Virginia.” said Dominion Energy’s Mark D. Mitchell.

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston will share insights into the Canadian province’s vision for offshore wind and showcase the success of existing cross-border partnerships and collaborations. Nova Scotia has set a target of auctioning 5 GW of offshore wind energy by 2030, with plans for its first call for bids to occur later this year. In his remarks, he’ll reinforce the importance of a strong U.S.-Canada relationship to the success of both countries’ offshore wind markets and opportunities for cross-border collaboration.

“Nova Scotia has some of the world’s most ideal conditions for offshore wind, and I look forward to pitching our province at the largest offshore renewables conference,” said Premier Tim Houston. “Our province has set a target of auctioning 5 GW of offshore wind energy by 2030 with plans for the first call for bids to occur this year.”

“Virginia Beach is proud to serve as the host sponsor for the International Partnering Forum,” said Christian Green, director of Virginia Beach Economic Development. “This forum presents a vital opportunity to bring together industry leaders and innovators for impactful conversations and forward-thinking dialogue. These curated discussions are critical for addressing the challenges and unlocking the opportunities for global communities in offshore wind. As we gather in Virginia Beach, we look forward to the exchange of ideas that will chart the course for collaboration, progress, and sustainable solutions for the future of the industry.”

MORE INFO  https://oceantic.org/oceantic-event/2025-ipf

Trafag AG, a manufacturer of high-accuracy measurement devices, has launched the 8719 Gas Density Monitor, designed to revolutionize gas insulated switchgear monitoring in the renewable energy industry. This device addresses the unique challenges of maintaining operational safety and efficiency in diverse renewable energy environments.

The 8719 Gas Density Monitor sets a new standard in insulating gas monitoring with its large 75mm dial, providing easier needle position readability for technicians working on renewable energy installations and reducing maintenance time. This feature enables monitoring of exact gas density levels. The monitor offers up to five galvanically separated circuits, allowing for independent monitoring of multiple density levels and enhanced alarm capabilities, crucial for complex renewable energy systems such as offshore wind turbines.

The device is engineered for reliability, delivering precise switching output across all temperature ranges and ensuring alarm triggering regardless of environmental conditions.

The 8719 Gas Density Monitor offers installation options of IP65/IP67 protection, it is suitable for both outdoor and indoor applications. This flexibility allows renewable energy providers to install the monitor across a range of locations, from solar farms to offshore wind turbines, ensuring consistent monitoring across diverse environments.

The 8719 Gas Density Monitor’s maintenance-free design reduces operational costs and downtime for renewable energy providers, while its shock resistance up to 70g ensures reliable operation in harsh environments typical of wind farms and remote solar installations.

The optional integrated test/refill valves facilitate easy on-site maintenance, minimizing disruption to renewable energy production. This feature is particularly valuable for remote installations where frequent maintenance visits can be costly and time-consuming.

The device’s gas density reference chamber principle offers the most reliable monitoring solution for insulating gas density, crucial for maintaining the integrity of power transmission from renewable sources. The floating change-over contact (SPDT) output signal provides switching output for alarm systems, enhancing safety in renewable energy facilities.

MORE INFO  www.trafag.com

NRG Systems, a global leader in wind and solar resource measurement and intelligence, announced its role in the wind resource assessment for the 600 MW Monsoon Wind Power Project in Laos. As the first wind plant in Laos and the largest in Southeast Asia, this landmark project marks a significant step in the region’s transition to clean energy, underscoring NRG’s role in driving global renewable energy growth.

In collaboration with Thailand’s authorized NRG Systems dealer, Strong Engineering and Consultant Co., NRG provided its advanced resource measurement technologies for the Monsoon Wind project’s pre-construction phase. NRG’s solutions enabled the collection of critical data to estimate the project’s annual energy production (AEP), assess financial viability, and identify potential risks, including site-specific challenges such as wind shear and wake effects.

The site, located on the Dak Cheung Plateau, an area 1,200 meters above sea level, posed significant logistical challenges due to its remote location and lack of road access. SEC selected NRG Systems’ resource assessment solutions for flexibility and performance in diverse climates and terrains.

“We are incredibly proud to play a key role in the Monsoon Wind Project’s success,” said Evan Vogel, President of NRG Systems. “Our wind resource assessment systems are designed for rapid deployment and ease of installation, even in the most difficult locations. With seamless data accessibility and high-quality measurement capabilities, our systems ensure efficient and reliable resource assessment campaigns. This capability was critical for determining the Monsoon Wind project’s viability and optimizing future performance.”

“NRG’s team provided expert technical support throughout the resource assessment campaign, helping us navigate the complexities of the site and optimize performance. Their solutions significantly reduced the need for site visits, saving time and money while ensuring accurate data collection,” said Wisa Wattanakankit, SEC managing director.

The Monsoon Wind Power Project features a 500kV transmission line connecting Laos and Vietnam. As Southeast Asia’s largest wind project, it sets an industry benchmark with its cross-border Power Purchase Agreement, showcasing the viability of large-scale wind energy in the region.

“NRG’s solutions are instrumental in advancing wind energy across Southeast Asia,” Vogel said. “By providing accurate, reliable data, we are helping lay the foundation for a sustainable energy future in the region, with wind energy playing an increasingly significant role in meeting energy demands and reducing carbon emissions.”

The Monsoon Wind Power Project installation is set for completion by the end of February 2025.

MORE INFO  www.nrgsystems.com

North Star and its shipbuilding partner, Cochin Shipyard Ltd., have cut first steel on EnBW’s new hybrid-electric service operations vessel (SOV). It is on schedule to commence a decade-long minimum charter to service to the He Dreiht wind farm off the coast of Germany, from the end of 2026.

The milestone was celebrated at Cochin Shipyard Ltd. in India, where the planning, engineering design and construction work are being carried out. North Star chief technology officer James Bradford attended the ceremony.

The new build will provide premier accommodation in field for up to 34 wind technicians as they maintain the development’s 64 wind turbines, located around 90 km northwest of the island of Borkum. The SOV will also act as a logistics hub and warehouse.

The ship is of VARD 407 design and has been tailored to meet EnBW’s specific requirements. To drive high performance and efficiencies, the high specification SOV includes Electric Voith Schneider propulsion (eVSP) and is designed to use methanol as a fuel in the future. The ship is also fully equipped with a height adjustable motion compensated gangway and 3D compensated crane.

Construction of its renewables fleet is being project managed entirely in-house by North Star. In the last year, North Star has managed shipbuilding programs at four separate shipyard locations around the globe, building its fleet designed to support the energy transition. Delivered on schedule and within budget, the firm’s successful construction projects demonstrate the team’s ability to locally manage the new-build process in the UK and overseas.

“The first steel cutting is always an exciting moment in the construction phase, and we were pleased to join the build team in India to mark the occasion,” said Bruno Bartel, North Star European renewables lead.

“This milestone also represents the beginning of our ambitious growth strategy in the region, as we expand our footprint in offshore wind markets around Europe,” Bartel said.

MORE INFO  https://www.northstarshipping.co.uk/

The United States is making significant strides toward a greener future, with wind energy emerging as a cornerstone of its renewable energy strategy. An analysis by global engineering firm, BGB, uncovers which U.S. states are spearheading this transition and those that are falling behind in their wind energy efforts.

To understand which states are leading the US towards a greener future, BGB analyzed six key data points to evaluate turbine shortfall and overall wind energy efficiency across the country, including the number of turbines in each state, the estimated monthly output, and number of turbines required to meet residential energy demand.

Iowa has more than 6,400 turbines generating more than 5.4 billion kWh of electricity per month, producing enough energy to power its 1.4 million homes, leaving a surplus of more than 4,000 turbines. Iowa’s open plains and consistently high wind speeds make it a national leader in wind energy efficiency, particularly in addressing residential energy demands.

Leading the nation with 19,137 turbines, Texas produces 16.1 billion kWh of wind energy monthly. This output is sufficient to power all 11.5 million homes in the state, demonstrating Texas’ commitment to renewable energy and its capacity to fulfill residential energy requirements.

Oklahoma is home to 5,527 turbines, generating 4.6 billion kWh monthly—enough to power all 1.7 million of the state’s homes while maintaining a surplus of over 3,000 turbines. Its expansive geography and modern infrastructure position it as a major player in the wind industry and a key contributor to meeting residential energy needs.

The US is home to more than 70,000 wind turbines, each helping the US work towards ambitious climate targets by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, and enhancing energy security. Beyond environmental benefits, the US wind industry also boosts economic growth, creating more than 120,000 in turbine manufacturing, maintenance, and operations.

Two states that don’t fare as well are North Carolina and Pennsylvania: North Carolina has the largest wind turbine shortfall, requiring 5,983 turbines to be installed if it were ever to meet the energy demand of its 4.7 million homes.

Pennsylvania doesn’t fare much better, with its 766 turbines not able to satisfy the demand of 5.7 million homes. To make up the difference, the state would need another 5,072 turbines.

“Research like this shows just how important wind is to the US energy mix. The top states showcased in our research show what’s possible with strategic investment in renewable energy infrastructure,” said James Wood, CFO at BGB in Virginia.

“With the new administration putting a pause on the development of new turbine installations both onshore and offshore, it’s never been more important to illustrate the power of renewable energy and how it can help the average American save on their energy bills,” said Wood.

MORE INFO  https://www.bgbinnovation.com/knowledge/news-and-articles/the-power-of-wind

The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) has released the Offshore Energy Industry’s Innovation and Workforce Excellence report that showcases the advancements and commitments of the offshore energy sector in innovation, environmental stewardship, and workforce development, featuring 16 case studies from NOIA member companies and other partner organizations.

“This report not only reflects our industry’s dynamic progress but also our commitment to smart, efficient, and responsible energy production. American offshore energy production is where innovation meets environmental responsibility, and this report, with its 16 comprehensive case studies, is a testament to that achievement. We’re not just meeting expectations—we’re surpassing them, pushing technology forward, and empowering our world-class workforce,” said Erik Milito, NOIA president.

“That drive runs through every level of our industry, from the Gulf of America to the Atlantic coast and beyond, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence.”

Case studies include American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Danos, Equinor, Exmar Offshore, Fugro, Kosmos, Noble, Ørsted, SEACOR Marine, Seadrill, SLB, Talos, TechnipFMC, TGS, Valaris, and the NEED Project.

The report delves into cutting-edge projects such as the 20k projects in the Gulf of America, highlighting how the industry is pushing boundaries in ultra-deep water exploration.

The document underscores the sector’s dedication to environmental, social, and governance ) principles, offering insights into carbon capture, use, and storage, and sustainable offshore transport and operations.

Emphasizing durability and safety, the report features case studies and initiatives from industry leaders, showcasing how companies are nurturing the next generation of energy professionals.

NOIA’s dedication to ESG extends to educational initiatives through our long-standing partnership with the National Energy Education Development (NEED) Project. For more than 25 years, this collaboration has aimed at enhancing energy education, including in the realm of offshore energy.

The report celebrates the achievements of companies like TechnipFMC, SEACOR Marine, LLOG, and SLB, who have been recognized for their exemplary practices in ESG and safety.

NOIA encourages all stakeholders, from policymakers to industry professionals, to explore the detailed insights and case studies that highlight the sector’s leadership in innovation and workforce excellence.

MORE INFO  https://www.noia.org/esg/the-offshore-energy-industrys-innovation-workforce-excellence-report/

Operating wind turbines under icing conditions, ice detection, de-icing, and ice prevention were the topics of the Winter Wind Conference. The most important trend at the expert meeting in Skellefteå, Sweden, was that preventive measures (anti-icing) are increasingly replacing de-icing.

The conference offered a comprehensive program of lectures and discussions in two parallel forums, which was complemented by an exhibition of about 45 companies and institutes. The discussions made clear: The optimization of ice detection and de-icing systems (IPS = Ice Prevention Systems or Ice Protection Systems) is becoming increasingly important. While the focus has often been on de-icing in the past, preventive measures (anti-icing) are becoming increasingly important. One of the biggest challenges, however, remains the detection of almost ice-free conditions to control blade heating in a targeted manner, minimize production losses, and enable a secure automatic restart.

Bachmann Monitoring had its own stand at the event, where the company’s solutions were presented. The company highlighted its ability to combine load detection and ice detection. This integration allows synergy effects to be exploited, eliminating the need for separate subsystems, reducing system costs and simplifying installation and maintenance. According to the company, this is a unique feature of Bachmann.

CEO Holger Fritsch gave a presentation on the topic “Validation of cantilever sensors for ice detection on rotor blades.” Using examples from the cooperation with Nergica, a research institute in Canada, Fritsch showed how the combination of cantilever sensors (CLS) and advanced algorithms enables reliable detection of ice formation and ice-free conditions. In the future, this technology could be the basis for a more intelligent controller for blade heating, both for new wind turbines and in the retrofit area.

One of the highlights of the conference was the excursion to the nearby Önusberget wind farm, which is home to 137 GE Cypress 5.5-158 wind turbines and is part of the Markbygden Wind Cluster. At a freezing minus-15°C, the participants were given an insight into how this wind farm is operated in winter under harsh icing conditions using de-icing systems.

“At the conference, it became clear that the market can benefit from optimized solutions that not only reliably detect icing conditions, but also enable intelligent control of blade heaters,” said Marc Thomsen, product manager at Bachmann Monitoring. “Our CLS and our evaluation algorithms can be decisive components here.”

A study by the Weilburg Technology Academy (Germany) shows how important the topic of ice detection is for the efficiency of wind turbines: It found that up to 56 percent of potential energy production is lost due to a lack of automatic restarts.

MORE INFO  www.bachmann.info/en

American Wire Group has appointed Nada Filipovic as vice president of marketing and communications and Kristina Borojevic as PR and communications director.

Filipovic will develop and oversee the execution of detailed marketing plans.

Since joining AWG in 2020, Mrs. Filipovic has fostered the growth and expanded AWG’s marketing efforts across multiple platforms, from social media to website management.

Borojevic will be responsible for internal and external communications strategies, digital storytelling and content creation.

Since joining AWG in 2022, Borojevic has focused on increasing AWG brand awareness through social media including video storytelling, educational content, and trade show promotions.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the strength and success of the marketing group with the promotion of both Nada and Kristina,” said Norman Russell, Chief Revenue Officer at

AWG. “With this new Marketing organization, AWG is positioned to accelerate growth in the markets we serve and continuously evolve as an organization.”

MORE INFO  www.buyawg.com

For nearly a decade, the integration of ZX Lidars technology into Equans’ Meteorological Monitoring Module has played a pivotal role in improving the safety and efficiency of offshore wind farm operations.

This sophisticated module provides  real-time environmental data from offshore substations. The optional feature to integrate ZX Lidars technology into the module significantly enhances its capabilities by remotely providing accurate wind data above the platform. This level of accuracy is important for ensuring the safety of helicopter landings and takeoffs on offshore platforms, where challenging conditions demand reliable data.

The ZX 300M wind Lidar is deployed on existing offshore substations, using infrastructure already in place to minimize additional setup costs and complexity. This Lidar-enabled approach enhances safety while also providing the opportunity to optimize turbine performance and site operations.  By providing actionable wind data from 10m to 300m the system enables owners and operators to maintain operations that are efficient, safe, and cost-effective.

The Lidar data also supports continual power curve assessments, benchmarking turbine performance against expected output. Early detection of performance anomalies allows operators to plan and execute maintenance proactively, reducing unplanned downtime.

“Over the past nine years, Equans and ZX Lidars have seen significant demand for our Meteorological Monitoring Module with integrated ZX 300M wind Lidar. Combining expertise in offshore engineering and design with an industry-leading wind measurement system delivers something unique to a challenging market. Offshore wind farms face many challenges, and we believe this technological advancement provides an innovative solution to enhance safety, efficiency, and optimization at offshore sites. We are delighted the industry recognizes this as a cost-effective way to add value to offshore substations,” said Alain Goddyn, Equans section manager marine.

MORE INFO  www.zxlidars.com