---

DNV and KEMA have obtained the necessary regulatory clearances to create a consulting and testing and certification company for the global energy sector: DNV KEMA Energy & Sustainability (DNV KEMA).

The new company begins its operations as of today, 29 February 2012, and is led by CEO Thijs Aarten. The company is headquartered in Arnhem, the Netherlands, and will be part of the DNV Group.

With over 2,300 experts in more than 30 countries around the world, DNV KEMA is aiming to drive the global transition towards a safe, reliable, efficient, and clean energy future.

DNV KEMA's services cover the energy value chain from energy source to end user, including renewable energy, carbon reduction and energy efficiency, power generation, transmission & distribution, and energy-related testing, inspection & certification. The company consists of all, more than 1,800 former KEMA employees, complemented by over 500 employees from DNV’s former renewable energy and sustainability activities. While DNV KEMA’s core markets are in Europe, North America and China, the company will pay special attention to growth regions such as Asia-Pacific, Latin-America and the Middle East which have a strong need for energy expertise.

"Major global trends will have enormous impact on the energy business in the years to come: increase in future electricity demand driven by the growth in global population and wealth; climate change and environmental concerns; finite fossil fuel reserves that cannot meet the future energy demand; and aging energy assets and workforce. Around the globe system-wide changes – including integration of more renewable power into the energy grids – will be necessary to guarantee safe, reliable and sustainable energy supply for future generations. At the same time, the role of gas will become increasingly important as gas creates flexibility in accomodating renewable energy sources such as wind and solar energy," DNV KEMA said in a statement.

Commenting on DNV KEMA, Thijs Aarten said: "I am very pleased that we can start our operations, now that we have obtained formal approval. The global energy industry is an industry in rapid transition and growth. This transition will cause major changes, from source to end consumer, and will result in more uncertainty in all parts of the energy value chain. With our independent view, in-depth knowledge, and innovative solutions for all elements of the energy value chain, we are well positioned to support our customers in ensuring a reliable, efficient, and sustainable energy supply, now and in the future."

Henrik O. Madsen, Chief Executive Officer, DNV Group said: “I am confident that companies along the energy value chain will benefit from the combined strengths of two highly respected, knowledge-based companies.”