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Combilift Launches Two Exciting Innovations at Ligna 2025

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Combilift debuted the Combi Load Xtender at Ligna 2025. The pantograph-style load extender is designed to transform how businesses manage truck and container loading, especially in space-restricted environments.

Designed specifically for environments where access is limited or dual-side loading is not feasible, the Combi Load Xtender offers a versatile option for businesses operating in tight logistics zones, congested yards, or facilities with restricted trailer access. It is valuable for operations involving rail wagons or loading bays that offer only single-side access.

The Combi Load Xtender’s ultra-low mechanism height ensures seamless operation beneath standard trailer beds, avoiding any structural interference while maintaining full functionality. Its open-frame pantograph design provides operators with visibility during loading and unloading, allowing for more accurate and safer handling of goods.

Safety is a core focus of the Xtender’s design. By allowing operators to securely position loads against the far, closed side of a trailer, it reduces the risk of products toppling and enhances personnel safety by minimizing exposure to active traffic zones. Its robust construction is built to withstand demanding industrial environments, and Combilift has filed patents for the design in both Europe and the United States.

The introduction of the Combi Load Xtender marks an advancement in logistics technology. It offers a practical, efficient, and safe solution to a long-standing challenge — enabling full-scale, one-side loading in a wide range of real-world scenarios.

Also at Ligna 2025, Combilift debuted the Combi-FSE 8000, an 8-ton electric sideloadercombining performance with zero emissions.

More info: www.combilifit.com

Brüel & Kjær Vibro names Victor Castro as CEO

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Brüel & Kjær Vibro (B&K Vibro), a worldwide supplier of condition monitoring and protection solutions for industrial machinery, has named Victor Castro as its new CEO.

 Castro, who will be based at B&K Vibro’s headquarters in Darmstadt, Germany, will lead the global organization in growth and operational management.

“B&K Vibro has a proud legacy as pioneers in condition monitoring and machine protection, delivering innovative solutions that optimize asset uptime and performance while safeguarding people, infrastructure, and machinery. With a robust foundation built on integrity, teamwork, and ambition, we are committed to giving every machine a voice, providing actionable insights that boost productivity and support a sustainable society,” said Castro.

Castro joined B&K Vibro in 2023 as CFO, and his promotion to CEO reflects his ongoing achievements in that role. Prior to B&K Vibro, he served more than 20 years as a Managing Director, CFO, and CEO, acquiring a proven track record in leading organizations through sustainable growth, strategic realignment, and digital transformation. Castro has an extensive background in financial services, IT, R&D, and digital platforms, having worked with software solution and digital health providers. As an experienced change manager, Castro has successfully spearheaded company reorganizations, expanded product portfolios, and optimized processes to drive profitability and innovation. 

“B&K Vibro will invest in future product development driven by customer feedback and market intelligence. We aim to develop a service-oriented ecosystem for machine protection and condition monitoring, leveraging state-of-the-art technology. Additionally, we are committed to strengthening our collaboration with the NSK Group in product lifecycle management, capitalizing on our shared strengths to deliver comprehensive turnkey solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers,” said Castro.


More info: www.bkvibro.com

Geoquip Marine completes geotechnical survey for two offshore wind projects in Germany

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Geoquip Marine, a provider of geotechnical services to the global offshore energy sector, has completed a preliminary geotechnical site investigation for two 4GW offshore wind projects. The investigation will support the developer in advancing the next phase of design for both project sites, located in the German sector of the North Sea.

Under the contract, Geoquip drilled 28 boreholes across the project sites to analyze the subsea terrain for turbine foundations. It underwent thorough soil sampling and seismic site monitoring to inform the engineering parameters for both projects in depths of 40m. By deploying the Dina Polaris vessel, equipped with geotechnical drilling, sampling and testing equipment along with an offshore laboratory, Geoquip provided seabed data, identifying challenging site conditions safely and efficiently.

Germany has set ambitious offshore wind capacity targets of at least 30GW to be installed by 2030, and these projects will be vital in supporting the country in reaching its goal. The potential renewable power from both projects aims to integrate low-carbon, hydrogen, and biofuel production, supporting wider industry decarbonization in Germany.

Due to its stringent processes around safety, transparency in reporting and rapid response, the developer presented Geoquip with its safety award for its work on the project.

“Receiving this safety award is a testament to our commitment to delivering reliable data with safety at the heart of everything we do. It reflects the precision and transparency we bring to every stage of our work, especially as we identify and mitigate complex site and seabed conditions to support the safe development of critical wind projects. Safety and reliability aren’t just priorities for us, they’re the foundation of our approach, and we remain focused on setting the standard across the industry,” said Fatih Topal, Geoquip Marine project manager.

More info: www.geoquip-marine.com/

Aikido partners with METCentre to build largest offshore wind platform to date

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Aikido Technologies, a floating offshore wind technology provider, has signed an agreement with Marin Energy Test Centre (METCentre) in Haugesund, Norway, to deploy a 15MW demo project, called AO60. Once installed in 2027, the platform will be one of the largest floating wind platforms constructed and deployed to date.

The METCentre has a long history of supporting floating wind projects, including the world’s first floating wind turbine, deployed by Equinor (then Statoil) in 2009. The AO60 project will showcase how the Aikido Platform technology can lower costs while engaging with local Norwegian supply chain partners to assist in the assembly and deployment of the platform. Due to its compact flat-pack configuration, Aikido’s technology can leverage existing maritime infrastructure, ports and vessels already in use in Norway. 

We are proud to announce our partnership with the METCentre. As evidenced by the recent Utsira Nord actions, Norway is a key floating wind market.  This project will show how Aikido can leverage existing infrastructure and vessels to reduce risks and accelerate the deployment of floating wind in Norway and around the world,” said Sam Kanner, Aikido CEO.

“This project offers valuable industry experience and supports the development of a full-scale, innovative and cost-effective solution. We are very excited to welcome Aikido to our site in Norway and connect them with Norway’s strong floating offshore wind supply chain,” said Cecilia Girard-Vika, METCentre Director.  

The Aikido Platform consists of thirteen modular steel components, including columns and trusses, that can be fabricated at existing offshore wind or steel fabrication sites. For the AO60 project, the components will be transported to a final assembly site near the test center, where the platform can be completed in a matter of days, not months, like traditional construction techniques. The Aikido Platform uses pin joints to complete the assembly of the platform without any major welding or painting work. The pin joints act as hinges and allow the platform to be folded during assembly, taking up just one-third of the space of traditional designs. Once deployed in the water, the platform is able to unfold during a simple ballasting procedure.

More info: www.aikidotechnologies.com

Clean energy manufacturing driving next chapter of U.S. economic prosperity

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The American Clean Power Association released its State of Clean Energy Manufacturing in America report, showing a sustainable ripple effect across states and economic sectors. The clean power manufacturing sector contributes $18 billion to U.S. GDP annually, spurs $33 billion in domestic spending annually, and supports 122,000 American jobs across the country.

If all announced manufacturing facilities become operational, clean power manufacturing is projected to support over 575,000 jobs and contribute $86 billion annually to GDP by 2030.

“Surging clean energy deployment is creating new manufacturing facilities across the country. This success will create hundreds of thousands of jobs and revitalize American communities if policy leaders place economic progress over partisan division,” said Jason Grumet, CEO of ACP.

“Today’s report shows that the manufacturing activities across the clean energy sector drive a ripple effect of economic growth that extends far beyond factory walls, reaching every corner of the country. Reshoring this critical supply chain requires a shared commitment by both industry and policymakers to prioritize domestic economic growth and global competitiveness.”

The report illustrates how the industry has laid the groundwork for a secure domestic supply chain, revitalizing manufacturing communities and driving American competition on the global stage.

More than 800 manufacturing plants contribute to the U.S. clean energy supply chain, with at least one in every state. Two hundred existing manufacturing facilities are actively building primary clean power components across 38 states to supply the booming demand for new energy in America.

New data highlights how clean power manufacturing is creating generational opportunities at the local level, providing opportunities across skillsets, industries, and generating wages well above the national average.

Clean energy manufacturing is booming in regions across the country, such as the Southeast, Midwest, and in states like Texas. The clean energy manufacturing workforce made on average $42,000 more than the average worker in the U.S. economy in 2024.

These manufacturing jobs also generate additional employment across the economy: Upstream supply chain jobs paid an average of $75,000, while downstream jobs supported by household spending—such as those in retail, food service, and hospitality—averaged about $52,000.

The report said that America’s power needs are growing fast—projected to rise 35–50% by 2040—as data centers expand, domestic manufacturing rebounds, and transportation and buildings electrify.

More info: cleanpower.org/resources/america-builds-power/

InterBolt™ features dynamic load monitoring to address fatigue failures​

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InterBolthas incorporated a new feature into its intelligent bolting system. The U.K.-based manufacturer is first to market with a solution that offers dynamic load monitoring to quantify cyclic loading of bolted connections.

This feature enables engineers to measure bolt load up at up to 250Hz while the asset is operational. The InterBolt sensors autonomously measure the bolt load at high frequency, then transmit wirelessly to the InterBolt Cloud where it is stored, analyzed, and visualized. This means engineers can remotely monitor cyclic loading of bolted connections from anywhere with an internet connection.

InterBolt typically provides bolt load measurements every hour or day. With its dynamic load monitoring feature, it is now possible to capture critical bolt load data in much shorter intervals, as low as 4 milliseconds. Through a sophisticated burst sampling regime, InterBolt can still achieve its impressive 12- to 15-year battery life with dynamic load monitoring enabled.

“Our dynamic load monitoring feature is a real game changer; 80 percent of bolting failures are due to fatigue but engineers currently have no way of measuring cyclic loading and identifying when fatigue failures are likely to occur,” said InterBolt CTO Jack Hughleigh. “Now, with InterBolt, cyclic loading can be quantified for the first time. This will significantly accelerate design validation and be an important tool for bolt failure investigations.”

The InterBolt system provides real-time bolt load measurements via a miniature bolt load sensor embedded directly into the bolt or threaded stud itself. The technology provides onsite bolt load measurements to ensure bolts are tightened accurately as well as remote bolt load monitoring to eliminate the need for manual periodic inspection. The system features longrange wireless communications (up to 1 kilometer), LED indicators, and a 12- to 15year battery life. The technology is already widely used across the European and North American wind, rail, and mining industries.

More info: www.interbolt.co.uk

Daughter craft to help fulfill up to a quarter of offshore wind CTV demand by 2050

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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.

Next-generation daughter craft are smaller and more adaptable.  (Courtesy: Chartwell Marine)

“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 vessels achieve cyber standards

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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 ships are the first to achieve Lloyd’s cyber resilience classification. (Courtesy: North Star)

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 acquires 137 MW Tuolumne Wind in Washington

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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.

Tuolumne Wind generates enough electricity to power 44,000 homes per 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 appoints engineering director

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

Neal Hamer is AWG’s new Director of Engineering – Power Equipment.  (Courtesy: American Wire Group)

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. acquires a Liebherr LG 1800-1.0 lattice boom crane at Bauma 2025

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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. operates in 35 states. (Courtesy: Liebherr)

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

VIKING launches world’s first immersion suit designed for women

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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 elects Vestas CEO to chairman role

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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 gets 495 MW order for Taiwan offshore wind

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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 secures three-year contract for Ørsted’s six German wind farms 

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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/

EDP Renewables North America Achieves Milestone in PPA Procurement

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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 launches platform to enhance weather safety awareness

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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

Speakers to explore U.S. supply chain, global market at IPF

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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 launches 8719 gas density monitor

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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 provides management tech for Monsoon Wind

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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