Fred Olsen Renewables has formed a partnership with Hafslund Eco, a power company formed by the merger of Norway’s second-largest electricity generator and largest power grid operator, to participate in upcoming tenders for Norwegian offshore wind projects
The partners will initially apply for licences for the development of offshore wind on the Norwegian shelf but are not ruling out working together subsequently. The move comes after the Norwegian Government decided to open applications for licences to develop wind energy in two areas in the North Sea, Utsira North and Southern North Sea II.
Together, Fred Olsen Renewables and Hafslund Eco will apply for licences to develop offshore windfarms in both areas.
Fred Olsen Renewables chairperson Anette Olsen said, “This collaboration brings together two companies that have a long tradition of investing long term in Norwegian value creation.
“Hafslund Eco has extensive expertise and experience in renewable power production, power markets and infrastructure. We are very happy to have Hafslund Eco as a partner.”
Hafslund Eco chief executive Bjørn Ruyter highlighted Fred Olsen’s expertise in wind power, offshore installation and offshore operations.
The project partners said they plan to propose bottom-fixed and floating wind solutions. They highlighted growing opportunities to supply power to offshore oil and gas installations and other consumers in and around the North Sea.
Ms Olsen said collaboration between Fred Olsen Renewables and Hafslund Eco would open the door for involvement in the offshore wind industry of the Norwegian supply chain. “Norwegian companies and the supplier industry have opportunities to develop solutions for offshore wind,” she said. “We want to contribute to creating a strong environment in offshore wind in Norway.”
Mr Ruyter said the partnership combines a major player in the Nordic power market and a significant global renewables player. “This is important. There are great opportunities for Norway here,” he said.
Hafslund Eco was formed in 2018 when Norway’s second-largest power generator E-CO Energi and largest power grid operator Hafslund Nett merged.
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