Clean-tech firm powers on with acquisition

A clean-tech firm has bolstered its presence in the global offshore wind market with an acquisition.

Kinewell has bought ForeCoast Marine.

Officials say the deal will see marine weather risk software provider ForeCoast Marine integrated into Kinewell’s software-as-a-service offer, expanding its capabilities across the lifecycle of offshore wind projects.

Kinewell, based in Wallsend, near Newcastle, is known for technology that helps developers optimise cable layouts, turbine placement and system performance. 

It says the addition of ForeCoast Marine introduces advanced simulation tools, enabling users to model marine operations using historical data and real-world constraints.

Tony Appleton, Kinewell chief commercial officer, said: “The future of offshore wind depends on digitalisation, and adding ForeCoast Marine to our software portfolio will enable Kinewell’s solutions to optimise every single stage of a project lifecycle, from installation to the operational and decommissioning stages.

“It will help the industry move faster, de-risk projects and lower costs, while positioning Kinewell at the forefront of offshore wind digital transformation.”

The acquisition follows a recent £750,000 investment from the North East Accelerate Fund, unlocking further grant funding and supporting plans to create ten jobs.

Dr Andrew Jenkins, founder and chief executive of Kinewell, which recently celebrated a King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, added: “ForeCoast Marine’s software will provide a major boost to the entire supply chain, from developers to consultants, insurers, marine planners, operators and ports, providing a single, easy-to-use solution that can not only de-risk developments but maximise performance and improve project financials.

“We also see huge potential in the use of ForeCoast Marine beyond offshore wind, with the software used to support the planning and execution of any marine activity.

“It has already been well-received by existing clients and has allowed new relationships to be forged with others in the sector. 

“It will provide a real boost to the business as we seek to continue developing digital solutions for some of the industry’s most complex problems.

“The funding, combined with the acquisition of ForeCoast Marine, will see 2026 be another stellar year for the team, with the creation of more high-skilled jobs and an ever-greater service offering for customers.

“And with more offshore wind farms set to come to fruition over the coming months and years, particularly in Asia and Europe where we have already firmly established ourselves, there will be even more exciting announcements to follow.”

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