Norway has unveiled plans for a wind energy research centre called NorthWind, to work on innovations to make the sector cheaper, more efficient and more sustainable
The Norwegian Minister of Petroleum and Energy Tina Bru said Nkr120m (€11.3m) will be invested in the facility, which will prioritise offshore wind research.
It will be led by the research institute Sintef, with partners Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Norwegian Institute for Nature Research, Norwegian Geotechnical Institute) and the University of Oslo.
Northwind will bring together over 50 partners from research institutions and industry all around the world, including Equinor, Aker Offshore Wind, Fred Olsen Renewables, Fugro, Nexans and Statkraft.
Bru said: “Rapid growth in offshore wind power internationally offers great opportunities for Norwegian businesses. Research and development is crucial to secure lower costs, less environmental impact and improved operating models for such projects.
“I believe a longterm research centre with industry partners, the research community and the government will contribute to further development of offshore wind power in Norway.”
Sintef chief executive Alexandra Bech Gjorv said: “The Centre’s innovations will benefit Norwegian industry and the world at large.
“Offshore wind has the potential to meet the world’s electricity needs many times over and innovations cutting its costs will help bring this renewable energy to the market even faster.”