Desalination membrane manufacturer Nitto Denko/Hydranautics has signed an agreement with Norwegian osmotic-power developer Statkraft for the development and supply of membranes for osmotic power.
Membranes are the key components in osmotic power generation, and the agreement between the two companies will accelerate the development of this renewable-energy technology.
On 24 November 2009, Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway opened the world’s first osmotic power plant at Tofte, outside Oslo. This Statkraft prototype had a limited production capacity and was intended primarily for testing and development purposes. The aim was to be capable of constructing a commercial osmotic power plant within a few years’ time.
Under the agreement, Nitto Denko/Hydranautics will develop membranes specifically designed for the use in large-scale osmotic power plants. The development of more efficient membranes will contribute to making the technology competitive with other renewable energy sources and will bring osmotic power further towards future commercialization.
“More renewable energy is key in combating climate change, and this partnership is an important step forward in the development of osmotic power,” said Jon Brandsar, executive vice president, Statkraft. “The partners have similar corporate cultures and values and have a complementary set of competence and expertise. This provides an excellent starting point for a successful cooperation.”
“We are very pleased to join efforts with the world leader in membranes in making osmotic power a reality”, said Stein Erik Skilhagen, head of osmotic power, Statkraft.