Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK) has opened a training centre with simulators in Akita, Japan to train crew for offshore windfarm projects
The Offshore Wind Training Centre has facilities for teaching technical personnel and workboat crews essential skills for manoeuvring vessels, engineers and supplies to wind turbines and foundations in offshore windfarms.NYK expects this to be a focal point for specialised training in offshore wind installations at a time when Japan is implementing its first renewable energy projects.
Its main facility is a full-mission bridge simulator tailored for offshore wind operations, supplied by Damen Services and VStep Simulation.
“This simulator provides the means for fleet owners in the Asia-Pacific region with the opportunity to safely test and train their crews in various ship designs, including the Damen fast crew supplier FCS 2710,” said Damen regional service manager for Asia-Pacific, Bastin Kubbe.
This full-mission bridge simulator completed factory acceptance testing in October and was then installed at the Japanese training centre.
“This simulator is designed to replicate real-world scenarios, its advanced capabilities offer a comprehensive training experience,” said NYK energy division’s executive officer and senior general manager Tsutomu Yokoyama.
“Its integration into the training centre underscores NYK-Line’s commitment to excellence in the offshore wind sector.”
The centre in Akita will be officially inaugurated on 1 April. It was built with NYK in a consortium with Damen Services that goes beyond providing these training facilities.
Both companies engage in collaborative initiatives with local governmental bodies and educational institutions to actively contribute to offshore human resource development.
“The strategic focus of this project is on expanding the offshore wind industry,” said Damen regional sales director for Asia Pacific, Thomas Röwekamp. “It also looks to ensure a skilled workforce.”
