Aker Solutions accelerates offshore wind energy transition in Norway

Aker Solutions is gearing up for the transition to offshore wind energy, calling for smaller projects to be initiated to prepare for larger undertakings expected after 2030. The company, which has 1,200 permanent employees in Verdal, seeks to facilitate practice and adaptability as it moves away from oil and gas.

In a notable development, the Belgian company Ventyr has been awarded the first substantial contract for offshore wind in Norway, planning to install between 60 and 100 wind turbines in the Southern North Sea II region. Currently, no Norwegian shipyards have been awarded contracts for this new wind farm.

Aker Solutions, led by CEO Kjetel Digre, operates significant offshore yards in Verdal, Stord, and Egersund. Digre emphasizes the need for training and experimentation to effectively transition to renewable energy practices. They have developed a robotic production line in Verdal that can significantly reduce manufacturing time for wind turbine components.

Norway’s government is preparing for its next call for offshore wind projects, with a focus on floating wind technology. Secretary of State Astrid Bergmål has announced that advancing floating wind projects has high priority for the government, highlighting ongoing discussions about the necessary support frameworks.

Industry representation organization Fornybar Norge advocates for large-scale floating wind projects, asserting that these should drive Norway’s offshore wind initiatives to enhance industrial capacity and reduce costs. They also support the idea of launching a limited number of smaller projects in the interim to mitigate technological uncertainties for both developers and suppliers.

The overall sentiment within the industry echoes a desire for increased momentum in the establishment of floating wind parks off Norway’s coast, aiming to foster a smoother transition toward renewable energy sources.