"Maritime Innovation of the year" honours an innovation technology, design or method that has strengthened the cluster's position as a global leader in maritime innovation.
Awarded by Anne Lise Sagen Major, Vice-Rector NTNU:
The jury believes that the three finalists, Seaonics ECMC Crane, Ulmatec Pyro Heat-to-Power concept and VARD's REM Power for REM Purus represent the diversity of innovation in the maritime cluster. Here is the range from the unique individual products to smart ways of using new technology, to the major integration projects.
The entire maritime value chain is represented in this group. At the same time, the jury admits that it has been difficult to pit the various links against each other in the award of such a prize.
The winner demonstrates the power of the maritime cluster – from shipping company, ship design, engineering, shipyards, suppliers, assembly and commissioning. The project points to the future for not just one actor, but several, and represents an innovation platform for a number of players in the maritime cluster. Several important, green and technological solutions, such as Kongsberg's Rim Drive Azimuth thrusters and Seaonic's ECMC crane, are examples of products commercialized through this vessel. In addition, the project is the first to be prepared under the Ocean Charger project with the aim of enabling electric charging of ships in offshore wind farms.
The project is an example of how large joint projects lift the innovation power of a number of companies in teams. The shipping company and designer have together developed a unique vessel, and the yard is the hub that has linked all the players together and integrated a large number of new products and functions that individually can be worthy of a price.
This year's Blue Maritime Innovation Award is therefore awarded to REM POWER, designed and built by Vard, for Rem Purus."
On stage to receive the award, Amrit Bhullar, Senior Vice President Business Development & Group Innovation:
"It is very exciting to accept this important award. Rem Power is a pioneer in green and technological solutions from a number of players in the maritime cluster here in Sunnmøre. This is proof that collaboration across the cluster is important for innovation and development and that the old slogan that we collaborate when we can, but compete when we have to, still applies. We receive this award on behalf of VARD, Rem Purus and everyone who has participated in this project. Thank you so much to them, together we really make a difference to enable future-oriented and competitive development at sea."
This is the first of two CSOV’s VARD is delivering to Rem Purus. REM Power is a pioneer in green and technological solutions. The Construction Service Operation Vessel (CSOV) is equipped with a Diesel-Electric & battery hybrid propulsion system designed for highly flexible and fuel-efficient operation. Substantial volumes in the vessel are set aside for future upgrades or conversion to zero emission energy sources.
- It is a great honor to receive this important award. Rem Power is a pioneer in green and technological solutions from a number of players in the maritime cluster here in Sunnmøre. This is proof that cooperation across the cluster is crucial for innovation and development and that the old slogan that we cooperate when we can, but compete when we must, still applies. We accept this award on behalf of VARD, Rem Purus and everyone who has participated in this project. Together we really make a difference to enable future-oriented and competitive development at sea, says Amrit Bhullar SVP Business Development and Group Innovation.