WindSpider, a Norway-based company developing an innovative modular self-erecting crane system for the offshore wind industry, has been awarded a NOK 17.5 million (approximately EUR 1.5 million) grant from Innovation Norway.
The funds from Innovation Norway will support the company in advancing its aluminum lifting solution, control system, and simulator.
Following the project, WindSpider will start building the first full-scale unit which could become one of the tallest cranes in the world.
According to the Norwegian company, its crane system is intended for installation and maintenance of both onshore and offshore wind turbines, with many benefits and at lower cost.
The self-erecting solution, which uses the turbine tower as support, has several features, including eliminating relative motion between crane and wind turbine, no turbine weight or height restrictions, compatibility with floating vessels, and good operability at windy sites, said WindSpider.
The crane system has the potential to allow the repair of floating wind turbines and the replacement of major components onsite, instead of towing the turbines to port for maintenance, according to the company.
WindSpider said the project is supported by recognized industry players, both in Norway and internationally.
In 2022, the company signed a letter of intent with the offshore wind developer RWE.
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