The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult and the Japanese Floating Wind Technology Research Association (FLOWRA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on reducing development risks and costs of floating offshore wind technology. This partnership aims to facilitate large-scale technology development through personnel exchange, standardization of component technologies, and a test and demonstration alliance. The MOU coincides with a wider cooperation agreement between the UK and Japanese governments to support offshore wind deployment in both countries.
Floating offshore wind is expected to play a significant role in the future energy mix of both the UK and Japan, with potential economic benefits, job creation, and reduced emissions contributing to climate change mitigation. The partnership will leverage UK R&D capabilities and Japanese industrial manufacturing capacity to accelerate technology development and bring innovative and sustainable renewable energy to both countries and global markets.
The UK’s Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds, emphasized the importance of international partnerships like this one, which will attract investment, deliver long-term growth, and support skilled jobs and improved living standards. ORE Catapult’s Dr. Cristina Garcia-Duffy highlighted the historical trade and investment partnership between Japan and the UK, making them natural partners for floating offshore wind technology development.
This collaboration is a significant step towards reducing emissions and mitigating climate change, as floating offshore wind can provide energy security and support efforts to reduce emissions. The partnership has the potential to create a scalable and sustainable industry, demonstrating the benefits of international cooperation in driving the transition to a low-carbon economy.