(HOUSTON) ABS and JB Energy have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on strategic studies for the proposed Aura Sul Wind Project, a floating offshore wind pilot under consideration in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.

ABS will support two key areas of the project: emissions reduction for the Port of Rio Grande and preliminary decommissioning strategy for JB Energy’s Raijin Float platform, a concrete-based, semi-submersible floating wind foundation.

"Floating offshore wind development depends on strong regional infrastructure and clear life-cycle planning from the outset. Through this collaboration with JB Energy, ABS will support studies that advance safe, sustainable and economically viable offshore wind development in Brazil," said Rob Langford, ABS Vice President, Global Offshore Markets.

"One of the most sustainable offshore wind structures is the one whose entire lifecycle has been considered from day one. Together with ABS, we are integrating port decarbonization, lifecycle thinking, and innovative decommissioning strategies into the Aura Sul Wind Project from its earliest stages. This collaboration will help establish new benchmarks for the sustainable development of floating offshore wind, not only in Brazil but for future projects worldwide," said Rodolfo Gonçalves, JB Energy, CEO.

The studies will address emissions reduction for the Port of Rio Grande, including electrification, renewable integration, low-carbon logistics, clean fuel opportunities and related infrastructure.

They will also examine removal concepts, towing and transport, dismantling, port logistics, environmental and safety considerations, and recycling and reuse opportunities for the concrete-based Raijin Float platform.

ABS is a trusted partner for offshore wind stakeholders, delivering advisory and technical review solutions that help minimize risk and enhance safety for offshore wind projects. Learn more about ABS renewables services here.

Photo Caption (L to R): Rafael Torres, ABS Director, Global Offshore; Lorrane Oliveira, ABS Senior Account Executive, Global Offshore; Gabriela Joelsas Timerman, JB Energy Chief Sustainability and Regulatory Officer; Luciana Passos, ABS Manager, Offshore Accounts; and Rodolfo Gonçalves, JB Energy CEO  

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About ABS

ABS, a global leader in classification services, is focused on delivering a safer, cleaner future for the marine and offshore industries. For over 160 years, ABS has been setting standards for safety and excellence and continues to innovate in the fields of clean technology, digitalization and artificial intelligence, providing industry-leading technical advisory services. With a global network of surveyors, engineers, technology specialists and support staff, ABS works with industry leaders including its members and clients around the world to improve safety in operational performance and efficiency with innovative solutions for the complete life cycle of marine and offshore assets.

About JB Energy

Japan Blue Energy Co., Ltd. - JB Energy is a Japanese engineering and technology company dedicated to advancing floating offshore wind through the development of proprietary technologies and integrated engineering solutions. The company is the creator of the Raijin Float®, an innovative concrete semi-submersible floating foundation designed for next-generation offshore wind turbines, and the developer and technical leader of the Aura Sul Wind Project, coordinating an international ecosystem of industrial partners, research institutions, and government organizations.