The Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) has completed a strategic impact assessment of three of the 20 offshore areas identified as potential sites for offshore wind development in Norway. NVE recommends to increase capacity in the Vestavind F area, to open a new project area in Sørvest F, and to defer any developments in Vestavind B for the time being.

In aviation and other sectors, equipment leasing has long been a recognised tool for companies looking to finance expensive items of equipment. Whilst to date equipment leasing has been less visible in the shipping industry, we are now seeing an increased interest in this type of financing from both shipowners and equipment lessors. However, leasing arrangements do include some inherent risks which the parties should seek to mitigate.

With its history and extensive experience with CO2 management as an oil and gas nation, Norway is a leading country in building a new CCS value chain in the fight against climate change.

Mainland China has become the largest offshore wind market in the world. An overall industry chain has been established which encompasses complete offshore wind installation and operation, as well as maintenance and spare parts manufacturing, presenting an attractive market for both domestic and foreign companies.

According to the report “Climate Change 2022: Mitigation of Climate Change”, published 4 April 2022, carbon capture and storage (CCS) is essential in order to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and reach the climate goals. When establishing an international value chain for CCS, the industry will have to work within the international rules and framework. This article focuses on the restrictions on export of CO2 in the “London Dumping Regime”, especially the London Protocol.

Companies leasing out equipment for use on board vessels need to be mindful of the legal risks and challenges in protecting legal title to their equipment. In this article we have highlighted potential threats and possible measures of mitigation.

Technology development within offshore wind, particularly floating offshore wind, is expected to continue at a significant pace in the coming years. How could such technology development be structured, and what should the involved parties be aware of and take into consideration?

Ship and rig recycling

Fisheries and Aquaculture

Carbon Capture & Storage (CCS)

China

Contract Law and Construction

Shipping

Partner

Christian is head of Wikborg Rein's Renewables Energy group in Bergen. He primarily works with project development works and contract advice within the shipping, offshore and energy industry. He has particularly broad experience from structuring, planning, negotiations and management of energy, shipbuilding and offshore projects. As part of the Renewables Energy group he is involved in several industry projects regarding renewables and the shipping industry's ongoing green transition. 

Christian was the Managing Partner of the Shanghai office from 2016 to 2019 and has extensive experience in cross border contracts and investment matters. 

Christian is ranked by Legal 500 as a recommended lawyer and for 2023 he were given the following  testimonial: "I have recently worked a lot with partner Christian James-Olsen and associate Jens Drageset. Both provide quick, quality feedback. They are able to convey legal perspectives in a simple, understandable and case efficient manner. They are always available. Even after working long hours, they are in a good mood, and we always find a way forward."

Bergen

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Christian is head of Wikborg Rein's Renewables Energy group in Bergen. He primarily works with project development works and contract advice within the shipping, offshore and energy industry.