Why a Norwegian Ocean Technology Centre?

  • The governments most important priority in maritime research, education, and innovation

Why a Norwegian Ocean Technology Centre?

The purpose of the Norwegian Ocean Technology Centre is to contribute to the green shift in the ocean industries and secure Norway's position as a leading maritime nation.

The solutions to many of the world's challenges in climate, energy, food, and minerals are found in the ocean. The Norwegian Marine Technology Research Centre aims to lead to new knowledge, skills, and research into the opportunities that lie in the ocean.

The centre aims to:

  • Educate the marine technology and ocean technology specialists of the future.
  • Provide industry and authorities with access to leading expertise and infrastructure related to the harvesting and management of the sea.
  • Contribute to the efficient use of national expertise and increased knowledge through collaboration with Norwegian and foreign institutions and businesses.
  • Actively contribute to an increased rate of innovation in the maritime industries.
  • Contribute to the transition and development of the maritime industries.

Important for work places Norway

When the ocean industries develops more profitable and sustainable solutions, it matters whether the construction is tested in Tyholt or in Singapore.

Increased knowledge in Norway is an investment in the welfare state.

This investment contributes to jobs and has ripple effects along the entire coast. If Norway is to continue to lead, we need good research facilities and laboratories where the expertise is located.


Renewable energy

Renewable energy

The world’s energy demand is increasing, while CO2 emissions must be reduced. Wind power, wave power and solar power are some of the solutions that can replace oil and gas. 

Photos of windmills
Foto: Andy Dingley, Wikimedia Commons

Green shipping

Green shipping

Yara Birkeland - one of the first autonomous cargo ships. Photo: Yara

Approximately 80 percent of world trade volumes are transported by seafaring ships. Although shipping is the most energy-efficient mode of transport, greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced if we are to reach our climate targets.  

Sustainable food production

Sustainable food production

The oceans are our largest source of food, but only two percent of what we eat are food from the sea. More sustainable aquaculture, new fishing methods, and knowledge about new food species are important if the world is to have enough food.  

Salmon swimming

Knowledge about the ocean

Knowledge about the ocean

Ocean observatory buoy being towed out in Trondheimsfjorden. Photo: Adressa Brand Studio

The world needs to gather more knowledge about the underwater ecosystems. Today, only 20 percent has been mapped, and only 5 percent explored. We also need to store the data in an efficient and standardised way.  

Project goals

Project goals

Societal goals: The project will secure value creation for Norway through competitive Norwegian ocean industries.  

Outcome goals: The Norwegian Ocean Technology Centre will make the Norwegian ocean space industries more productive through: 

  • Knowledge and technology development 
  • Knowledge externalities  
  • World-leading educational environments
  • Contributing to trade and industry restructuring