UK businesses targeting entry or expansion in the burgeoning offshore renewable energy sector can apply for the national Fit For Offshore Renewables (F4OR) programme, run by the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult.

A new spinout company has announced it has developed modular generator technology which the founders say could reduce the levelised cost of energy for offshore renewables by 10 to 15%.

Wind turbines are playing a crucial role in the expansion of greener energy alternatives currently contributing around 30% of the UK’s total electricity generation. Like any rotating industrial applications and machinery, timely and efficient maintenance is critical for wind turbines. For example; understand the dynamic behaviour, establish a baseline performance to detect the early onset of failure of rotating parts. As with all condition monitoring, if machinery is left unchecked there will always be increased potential for more serious damage and disruption.

CRP Subsea, an AIS company, has announced it has secured a substantial contract from ocean services supplier DeepOcean. The contract involves supplying cable protection systems for RWE’s Nordseecluster A offshore wind project, located in the German North Sea.

Motive Offshore Group, a specialist in rental, inspection and engineering equipment for the energy sector, has announced its acquisition of Aquatic, a global leader in laying and retrieving flexible products from the seabed, previously owned by marine energy and infrastructure services company Acteon. The deal will increase Motive’s rental fleet and provide a full back-deck offering globally.

Natural Power a leading renewable energy consultancy and service provider has announced it has officially opened its 13th global office in Castlebar, County Mayo, Ireland.

The construction of the new R3 base oil plant at the Shell Energy and Chemicals Park Rheinland (Shell Rheinland) was launched with an internal ceremony.