Aikido Technologies Partners with METCentre to Deploy Groundbreaking 15MW Floating Wind Platform in Norway

California-based Aikido Technologies has recently announced a strategic collaboration with the Marine Energy Test Centre (METCentre) in Haugesund, Norway, to launch a pioneering 15MW demonstration project named AO60. This project, set to be installed in 2027, will mark a significant milestone as one of the largest floating wind platforms ever constructed and deployed.

The METCentre, renowned for its track record of supporting innovative floating wind initiatives, including the deployment of the world’s first floating wind turbine by Equinor (formerly Statoil) in 2009, is an ideal partner for Aikido’s ambitious venture. The AO60 project aims to showcase the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of Aikido’s Platform technology while fostering collaboration with local Norwegian supply chain partners for the assembly and deployment phases. Leveraging Norway’s existing maritime infrastructure, ports, and vessels, the Aikido Platform demonstrates its adaptability and practicality for the offshore wind industry.

The Aikido Platform: Revolutionizing Offshore Wind Construction

The innovative Aikido Platform comprises 13 modular steel components, including columns and trusses, designed for fabrication at established offshore wind or steel manufacturing facilities. For the AO60 project, these components will be transported to a designated final assembly site near the METCentre, streamlining the construction process to a matter of days rather than months typical of conventional methods.

Central to the Aikido Platform’s design are pin joints that facilitate the assembly without extensive welding or painting requirements. These pin joints serve as hinges, enabling the platform to be folded during assembly, significantly reducing space requirements compared to traditional designs. Once deployed in the water, a simple ballasting procedure allows the platform to unfold seamlessly, ready to harness wind energy efficiently.

Driving Innovation and Sustainability in Offshore Wind

By collaborating with the METCentre in Norway, Aikido Technologies is at the forefront of advancing sustainable energy solutions through cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships. The AO60 project represents a pivotal step towards commercializing floating wind platforms on a large scale, demonstrating the viability and potential for widespread adoption of innovative offshore wind solutions.

As the global energy landscape continues to evolve towards renewable sources, initiatives like the AO60 project underscore the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in driving the transition to a greener future. Aikido Technologies and METCentre’s collaboration sets a new standard for the offshore wind industry, showcasing the possibilities of next-generation technology in revolutionizing energy production and contributing to a more sustainable world.