Ocean Winds has announced an extension to its long-term Operations & Maintenance (O&M) contract with Principle Power for the 25MW WindFloat Atlantic project. This decision reinforces the operational success of the world’s first semi-submersible floating wind farm. Since its installation in 2019, Principle Power has provided comprehensive O&M services, including Inspections, Maintenance, and Repair (IMR) activities, along with integrated engineering support. The company has also implemented remote monitoring and data analytics to optimize the project’s performance. The collaboration between Ocean Winds and Principle Power has resulted in exceptional performance, with WindFloat Atlantic exceeding initial power expectations and demonstrating remarkable resilience to extreme weather conditions, including 20-meter waves and 139 km/h wind gusts. Asset senior lead associate at Ocean Winds Daniel Ribeiro said: “At Ocean Winds, we are pleased to continue collaborating and extend our long-term contract with our partner Principle Power. “Together with the WindFloat Atlantic team, Principle Power helps us deliver a high-quality operational service that prioritises safety and allows us to consistently exceed the production expectations of this pioneering project each year, demonstrating the readiness of floating technology for the commercial-scale phase.” Vice-president of O&M at Principle Power Clara de Moura Santos said: “The extended contract further validates the…
Aberdeen Science Centre is set to revolutionize its visitor experience with the introduction of virtual reality (VR) technology. Thanks to the generous support of Mermaid Subsea Services UK, ETZ Ltd, and Peterson Energy Logistics, the centre will be able to offer immersive VR experiences that will transport visitors to new worlds and inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. The funding will enable the centre to purchase 38 VR headsets, which will be used in a variety of interactive activities, workshops, and science demonstrations. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the solar system, journey through the human body, and even experience the thrill of deep-sea exploration. Steph McCann, head of fundraising at Aberdeen Science Centre, welcomed the support the project has seen so far, and encouraged any other organisations interested in investing to get in touch. She said: “We are immensely grateful for the support of Mermaid, ETZ Ltd and Peterson, alongside AVC, which has allowed us to move forward with our plans to enhance our interactive activities and workshops with the addition of VR headsets. With this technology, we can transport our visitors to new worlds where they can explore our solar system, walk around a hydroelectric dam,…
RES, a leading global renewable energy company, has signed a sales agreement with Prime Capital for the Alby hydrogen plant project in Ånge municipality, Sweden. The project, which will be owned by Prime Energy Infrastructure Fund II, aims to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through electrolysis, converting water into green hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen will then be combined with captured carbon dioxide and further processed into eSAF, a low-carbon alternative to traditional jet fuel. The Alby plant will be powered by 500MW of renewable energy from the Tovåsen substation. This significant investment will not only contribute to the decarbonization of the aviation sector but also create new jobs and boost the local economy. Chief executive officer of RES in the Nordics Matilda Afzelius said: “This is a great day. 500MW capacity allows for a significant renewable aviation fuel production. “In a broader perspective, it is an important step in the transition to fossil-free fuels. For RES Nordics, this hydrogen development agreement with Prime Capital is a final exam. A final exam which we passed with honours, indicating that RES Nordic develop marketable, attractive and sustainable energy projects that also create positive socio-economic effects in places like Ånge.” Head of infrastructure and managing director…
Frascold, a leading manufacturer of compressors, is proud to participate in the InterHeat project, a Danish initiative aimed at showcasing the potential of ultra-high-temperature heat pumps in industrial applications. Led by the Danish Technological Institute (DTI), the InterHeat project seeks to demonstrate the viability of high-temperature heat pumps as an energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating methods. Frascold is contributing to the project by supplying two compact CX ATEX semi-hermetic screw compressors, specifically designed for high-temperature applications. These compressors, capable of operating at over 100°C, are ideal for industries such as food, pharmaceutical, and general manufacturing, where high-temperature processes are essential. By utilizing advanced technology and innovative design, Frascold is helping to drive the adoption of more sustainable and efficient industrial solutions. “Frascold is committed to providing innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of our customers,” said Marco Perri, R&D Manager at Frascold. “The InterHeat project is an excellent opportunity to showcase the potential of high-temperature heat pumps and their ability to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.” The high-temperature heat pump system is currently undergoing rigorous testing at DTI’s laboratory. Once successfully tested, it will be integrated into a real-world industrial application, specifically a drying process in a powdered…
Ørsted, a global leader in renewable energy, has announced plans to build a battery energy storage system (BESS) co-located with its Hornsea 3 Offshore Wind Farm onshore substation. The project, dubbed Boudica, is a pioneering initiative that will optimize the integration of renewable energy into the UK’s electricity grid. The co-location of the BESS with the onshore substation will enable the efficient storage and utilization of excess renewable energy generated by the wind farm. By sharing infrastructure and optimizing operations, Ørsted aims to maximize the value of the renewable energy produced. Boudica is expected to come online in 2026, providing a significant boost to the UK’s energy storage capacity. This project demonstrates Ørsted’s commitment to driving the energy transition and accelerating the adoption of clean energy solutions. John Twomey, Director of Customer Connections at National Grid Electricity Transmission, highlighted the benefits of co-locating energy storage with renewable generation: “Co-locating assets in this way can help maximize the benefits of new renewable generation planning to connect to the electricity network, ensuring excess wind power can be stored and used when needed.” By combining renewable energy generation with advanced energy storage solutions, Ørsted is paving the way for a more sustainable and…
The European Association of Research Managers and Administrators (EARMA) has secured EU funding for a new project aimed at developing a standardized approach to training research managers across Europe. The RM Framework project will establish a framework to guide policymakers, training providers, and research organizations in developing effective and sustainable research management training programs. By aligning training standards and practices, the project aims to improve the quality of research management and support the careers of research managers across the continent. The project will involve a consortium of 16 organizations from 10 countries, including Belgium, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. Research-performing organizations will also be closely involved to ensure the framework meets the real-world needs of research managers. A key aspect of the project will be the use of design thinking to tailor training programs and accreditation processes to the specific needs of research managers. This human-centered approach will help to ensure that training is effective and relevant. The RM Framework project is expected to start in February 2025 and will run for two years. It has been allocated €1 million in EU funding. EARMA is also leading the ongoing RM Roadmap project, which…
OQ Technology, a leading provider of satellite-based IoT connectivity, has been selected by the European Union’s Horizon Europe program to receive funding for its groundbreaking AMAZING-6G project. This project aims to push the boundaries of wireless technology and develop innovative solutions for a wide range of industries. The EU’s Horizon Europe program is dedicated to supporting cutting-edge research and innovation across various fields, including telecommunications. By selecting OQ Technology’s project, the EU recognizes the company’s potential to contribute to the development of next-generation networks that will transform society and drive economic growth. OQ Technology’s AMAZING-6G project will focus on developing and testing innovative 6G use cases across critical sectors such as healthcare, public safety, energy, and transportation. By leveraging satellite-based IoT technology, OQ Technology aims to address the limitations of traditional terrestrial networks and provide reliable, high-performance connectivity in remote and underserved areas. Through large-scale trials, OQ Technology will demonstrate the transformative potential of 6G technology and pave the way for the development of new applications and services. This funding will enable the company to accelerate its research and development efforts, further solidifying its position as a leader in the global 6G ecosystem.
The Council of Europe has announced the successful completion of a long-term capacity-building program for ten newly established Ukrainian youth organizations. The program, implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine, aimed to enhance the skills of young professionals in financial and project management, as well as in engaging young people in decision-making processes. Through the “Access to Youth Work” initiative, ten CSOs from nine regions of Ukraine received expert support and grants to implement innovative youth work projects. The focus was on open youth work, including outreach, detached, street, mobile, and online approaches, to reach diverse groups of young people, particularly those affected by the ongoing conflict. In addition to the capacity-building program, the Council of Europe’s “Youth for Democracy in Ukraine” project has been conducting research on open youth work practices and developing training programs for youth workers. This research has been particularly valuable in the context of the war in Ukraine, as it has helped to identify the specific needs of young people and develop appropriate interventions. The Council of Europe’s continued commitment to supporting youth work in Ukraine is a testament to the organization’s dedication to promoting human rights, democracy, and youth…
In a significant development for India’s naval capabilities, France has offered advanced pumpjet propulsion technology for the country’s next-generation diesel-electric and nuclear-powered attack submarines. This technology, already operational in the French Barracuda-class submarines, is renowned for its stealth capabilities. Pumpjet propulsion systems are known for their reduced acoustic signature compared to traditional propeller systems. By adopting this technology, India’s submarines would gain a significant advantage in underwater operations, enhancing their stealth and maneuverability. This would enable the Indian Navy to operate more discreetly in the Indian Ocean region. The potential acquisition of this technology underscores the growing defense partnership between India and France. The two nations have been actively collaborating on various defense projects, including joint military exercises and co-development of military hardware. This move by France highlights the increasing importance of advanced submarine technology in modern naval warfare. By equipping its submarines with cutting-edge propulsion systems, India aims to strengthen its naval forces and safeguard its maritime interests.
The University of Leeds is at the forefront of a groundbreaking project aimed at accelerating the reconstruction of war-torn Ukraine while prioritizing sustainability and environmental responsibility. The Safe, Sustainable, and Swift Reconstruction of Ukraine (S3RoU) initiative brings together a consortium of British, Ukrainian, and Dutch organizations to develop innovative solutions for rebuilding the country. By upcycling construction and demolition waste, the project seeks to minimize environmental impact and create a more sustainable future. Key areas of focus include developing innovative construction materials, promoting a circular economy approach, leveraging digital technologies, and engaging with local communities. Professor Theodore Hanein, Chair of Construction Materials Science in the School of Civil Engineering at Leeds, and S3RoU’s technology lead, said: “We hope this project will be transformative for the people of Ukraine, both now and for future generations, making the Ukrainian economy more resilient, more self-reliant, and more environmentally friendly. “By recycling rubble into low-energy and low-carbon construction materials, manufactured in a responsible, resilient, and sustainable manner, we will create a circular economy. We will develop technologies that can be used globally in post-conflict and end-of-life infrastructure reconstruction, as well as to help all parts of the world affected by disasters such as earthquakes and floods.” …
