Nitto Denko’s subsidiary, Hydranautics has inked a development and supply agreement with Statkraft for a new alternative energy technology, osmotic power.
Hydranautics is a major producer of membranes for ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis technologies used in water reuse, waster water treatment and desalination. Statkraft was involved in the production of osmotic power for nearly a decade. In 2009, the company has established the osmotic power prototype facility, the first of its kind in the world.
As per the agreement, Hydranautics will design membranes for applications in huge-scale osmotic power facilities. The development of highly effective membranes will enhance the competitive edge of the osmotic power technology with respect to other latest, alternative energy sources and will eventually lead to future commercialization of the technology.
According to the Chief Executive Officer at Hydranautics and Head of Nitto Denko Global Membrane Division, Yasushi Nakahira, alternative energy sources are important for the future and designing membranes for osmotic power production fits with the company’s strategy for green energy and environmental associated business expansion.
The Chief Executive Officer at Hydranautics, Brett Andrews commented that new membrane technology is important to develop osmotic power as an economical alternative energy source. Statkraft’s Head of Osmotic Power, Stein Erik Skilhagen commented that the company is happy to collaborate with Hydranautics to make osmotic power a reality.