Wilhelmsen will acquire 25 percent of the growing offshore wind company Østensjø Group.

Wilhelmsen also received an option before June 2021 to purchase another 25 per cent.

Launched in 2018, Edda Wind owns and operates service vessels that support the maintenance work performed during offshore wind park commissioning and activity.

“The Wilhelmsen group’s strategy is very clear, to further expand into renewables, by working together with partners, and leveraging our expertise and assets. So, finding an opportunity like this to work with Østensjø and invest in Edda Wind, a growing company, rapidly expanding its fleet with future-focused emission free vessel technologies is ideal.

“With our unrivalled global network, decades of in-depth logistical and operational expertise, and experience in the renewable space, through our NorSea and Elevon interests, Wilhelmsen is uniquely equipped to help unlock Edda Wind’s enormous potential. We also know a thing or two about hydrogen as a marine fuel, which might come in handy for the future vessels.”

Thomas Wilhelmsen, CEO of the Wilhelmsen group. 

“We are very pleased with having Wilhelmsen as our partner in Edda Wind. During Østensjø’s 50-year long history of advanced offshore operations, we have gained experience and knowledge that has enabled us to become a significant supplier of service operation vessels within offshore wind. Wilhelmsen’s strong brand, competence, and global position, combined with both companies’ ambition to develop new green solutions, will further strengthen Edda Wind’s position to become a world-leading provider of offshore wind services. We have learned to know Wilhelmsen as a solid and knowledgeable company that stands for many of the same values as Østensjø Rederi, which makes me confident that this partnership will be both long-lasting and successful.”

Johannes Østensjø, owner of the Østensjø Group. 

Reflecting the rapid growth of the offshore wind industry, Edda Wind currently operates two vessels and four low-emission service vessels in order with yards. Long-term charter arrangements for two newbuilds are in effect ahead of their scheduled delivery in 2022. Østensjø Rederi will continue to run the fleet of Edda Wind.