Clarksons Offshore & Renewables has hired a veteran in the European offshore wind farm sector to lead the company’s efforts to grow market share in the US.

The unit of UK-based broking giant Clarksons has brought on Jonathan Lints, who will be charged with attracting more investments focused on developing offshore wind vessels in the US market and further growing the sector.

“I look forward to applying my experience of working on the construction of multiple North Sea wind farm projects to the opportunity before us in the US,” Lints said in a statement.

“Their extensive knowledge of the Jones Act and other US regulatory framework is already proving extremely valuable for our clients.”

Lints, who will head up US offshore operations, will strive to help clients expand their US presence by providing supply chain experts who will help them carry out offshore wind projects, Clarksons said.

Lints and his US team will also offer chartering and newbuilding services to US projects.

The team has supported three SOV awards to date, with a combined chartering period of 27 years.

“Clarksons has been active at the heart of US offshore wind projects right from the outset,” global head of renewables Frederik Andersen said in a statement.

“Our US team has been very successful with several wind farm vessel tenders to date, but this is just the start of the journey.

“The American state and broader population are embracing renewables power, and increasing offshore wind production in the US will require many more vessels, as well as significant investment.”

He said Clarksons Offshore & Renewables also benefits from getting financing through sister investment bank Clarksons Securities.

“Clarksons Securities has established a leading position in the capital markets financing of offshore wind vessels and supply chain, advising on multiple IPOs, private equity placements and M&A transactions, he said.

“Jonathan’s appointment further strengthens our extensive capabilities in the market and demonstrates our commitment to investing in the US renewable energy industry.”