RENC

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RENC Regional Electronic Navigational Centre based on the principles of the IHO/IMO WEND. A RENC is a governmental body whose role is to collect all official ENC information into a seamless database.

Currently two RENCs exist in Europe. Primar - based in Stavanger, Norway and IC-ENC based in the UK. At one point in the past (1999-2002), only one RENC existed – Primar based in Norway - a joint venture between the UKHO (UK) and ECC (Norway) – however due to the requirements of the various distribution models, it was decided to split them into two centres.

The two RENCs collect all available ENC data globally and make this available to a set of approved distributors/value added distributors (VAR). The two RENCs operate with two distinct operational models – IC-ENC being a relatively simple distribution service and Primar operating a more advanced distribution model and service including encryption of the ENC data to the IHO S63 standard.

Combined, the two RENCs have access to most of the worlds ENCs, actively participate in international standard bodies and general strive to increase the take-up of ENCs worldwide.