During the Floating Offshore Wind 2024 Conference, Blackfish Engineering announced a pivotal partnership with AJT Engineering, formalised through a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership aims to drive the commercialisation of the C-Dart mooring system, a cutting-edge quick connect solution designed to enhance efficiency and safety in the offshore renewable energy industry.
A Collaborative Vision for Innovation
The MoU establishes a joint framework between Blackfish Engineering, a trailblazer in ocean renewable energy technologies, and Aberdeen-based AJT Engineering, renowned for its manufacturing expertise. Together, they aim to bring the C-Dart system to market, targeting the growing demands of Scotland’s renewable energy sector and global offshore markets.
“This collaboration signifies a pivotal step in making the C-Dart system widely available,” said Jon Powell, Managing Director of Blackfish Engineering. “By combining our technical innovation with AJT’s advanced manufacturing capabilities, we are well-positioned to deliver a transformative solution for the offshore sector.”
Revolutionising Offshore Mooring with C-Dart
The C-Dart mooring system is an advanced, innovative solution crafted to optimise offshore operations and enhance overall efficiency. Its quick connect features minimise risks, reduce setup times, and improve overall operational efficiency. Blackfish Engineering will lead the development of application-specific adaptations, while AJT Engineering will focus on the system’s production and assembly.
“We’re excited to work alongside Blackfish Engineering to bring the C-Dart system to life,” stated David Scalley, Managing Director of AJT Engineering. Our robust manufacturing expertise, paired with Blackfish’s technical innovation, makes this collaboration a transformative step forward for the renewable energy sector.”
Support from Scotland’s Renewable Energy Ecosystem
The partnership has garnered robust backing from Scotland’s renewable energy stakeholders. Wave Energy Scotland (WES) played a crucial role in the system’s development by providing research and development funding. Scottish Enterprise and the Energy Transition Zone (ETZ) have also offered significant support, fostering collaboration to help Scottish innovations succeed globally.
Tim Hurst, Managing Director of WES, noted: “This collaboration represents a significant advancement for the C-Dart system, which we’ve supported through funding and sea trials. It’s an exciting step toward widespread adoption.”
Marion Murray, an International Trade Specialist at SDI, praised the collaboration, saying: “Scotland continues to lead in renewable energy innovation, and Blackfish Engineering’s work exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in achieving global impact.”
Accelerating Energy Transition
The partnership aligns with Scotland’s broader energy transition goals, particularly in the North East region. ETZ Development Manager Jacqui Watt highlighted the importance of such collaborations in driving innovation and economic growth: “This MoU underscores the role of partnerships in fostering cutting-edge renewable energy solutions. ETZ is proud to have supported AJT Engineering through initiatives like the Challenge Fund and looks forward to their continued success.”
Next Steps
The MoU marks the beginning of an exploratory phase, during which the two companies will engage in joint customer outreach, manufacturing strategy development, and marketing efforts. This period will culminate in a formal commercialisation agreement, paving the way for the C-Dart system’s widespread deployment in the offshore renewable energy sector.
Conclusion
This partnership between Blackfish Engineering and AJT Engineering sets a benchmark for innovation in offshore mooring technology. Supported by Scotland’s renewable energy ecosystem, the C-Dart system is poised to enhance operational efficiency and safety while contributing to the global transition to sustainable energy.