DNV has become the first non-Japanese recognised organisation authorised by the Japanese Flag Administration to apply floating offshore wind classification rules in Japan.  

The authorisation enables DNV to apply its floating offshore wind rules within the Japanese regulatory framework and strengthens the company's ability to support stakeholders involved in floating offshore wind projects in Japan. DNV's framework covers floating offshore wind installations, including floating substructures, mooring and station-keeping systems, and associated safety and utility systems.

Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria, CEO Maritime at DNV, said: “We greatly appreciate the constructive co-operation with the Japanese authorities throughout the process. It reflects our long-term commitment to Japanese maritime and offshore industries and strengthens our ability to contribute independent expertise and assurance as the market develops. We see increasing interest in floating offshore wind globally, and trusted technical frameworks will play an important role as projects progress.” 

Per Christer Lund, Special Advisor of Energy and Technology, Innovation Norway Tokyo, added: “DNV's authorisation is an important milestone for Japan’s floating wind sector. As projects move closer to development, access to international experience and established technical frameworks becomes increasingly important. Norway and Japan have built strong ties across the maritime, energy, and offshore industries, and this authorisation creates another opportunity for collaboration as Japan develops its floating offshore wind industry.” 

Japan is widely recognised as a market with significant long-term potential for floating offshore wind due to its extensive coastline, deepwater conditions, and ambitions to increase renewable energy capacity. The new authorisation further positions DNV to contribute with technical expertise, risk management, independent assurance, and certification services as the market develops. 

The authorisation follows close collaboration between DNV Japan and global technical experts, as well as constructive engagement with the Japanese authorities throughout the approval process. DNV has been involved in offshore wind projects globally for several decades and continues to support the industry's development through technical standards, classification and advisory services.

 

 

For more news and technical articles from the global renewable industry, read the latest issue of Energy Global magazine.

Energy Global’s Autumn 2026 issue

The Autumn issue of 2026 is available now! The new issue begins with a regional report on Asia Pacific, looking at the region’s transition from building capacity to building systems. The issue also explores topics such as offshore wind foundations, solar maintenance, training the new workforce, inspection & maintenance, and more! With insights from experts such as Everllence, BW Ideol, EM&I, Watson Farley & Williams, and many more, make sure to check out this issue now.