Wind Energy Institute of Tokyo Inc. (WEIT) formed a capital alliance with a classification society, ClassNK, on 15 January.
Under the agreement, ClassNK will acquire around 30% of WEIT’s shares enabling both parties to leverage their wealth of experience and knowledge to develop solutions to issues currently faced by the renewable energy industry.
“Through this mutually beneficial agreement we will further accelerate the technological development of marine renewable energy and promote its practical application and commercialization. By offering our services we can help ensure the safety and success of future renewable energy projects for the benefit of the greater community,” said Operating Officer and General Manager of the ClassNK Renewable Energy Department Mr. Hirofumi Takano.
Since its establishment in 2004, WEIT has provided a variety of services such as wind resource assessment and load analysis for wind turbine structures. Furthermore, since 2011, ClassNK has offered certification services for onshore and offshore wind turbines and over the years has expanded its activities to include the verification and certification of offshore wind farm projects and marine renewables.
ClassNK also conducted classification surveys and certification services for the world’s first floating offshore wind project which was built as a demonstration project off the coast of Fukushima.