Offshore wind summit in Edinburgh to benefit industry

At a recent offshore wind summit in Edinburgh, Scotland, representatives of the British Government, trade unions, and offshore wind companies discussed the impending supply chain challenges which are set to face the industry in the foreseeable future.

Following the summit, plans have been made to boost the number of offshore wind contracts which will stay in Scotland so as to benefit companies operating within the sector and the country, however developers will be required to agree on supply chain commitments upon applying for a lease, under an agreement set out between the Scottish Government and Crown Estate Scotland.

The Scottish Economy Secretary, Derek Mackay stated: “Scotland is the ideal location for offshore wind, but recent projects have not delivered the significant economic opportunities we want to see for Scottish businesses.

“The Scottish Government has been calling for the offshore sector to do more by awarding contracts to our indigenous supply chain but recent disappointments suggest that more has to be done.

“I will use every lever at our disposal to ensure that our renewable supply chain benefits from the expansion of offshore wind in our waters, leading to the creation and retention of Scottish jobs.

“The measures agreed with Crown Estate Scotland will help to release more of those economic benefits for the Scottish economy and ensure that the Scottish-based supply chain is considered when tendering for work or making long-term conditions.”

The Director of Marine for Crown Estate Scotland, Colin Palmer added: “Scotland has unique potential when it comes to offshore wind and we are committed to doing all we can to unlock that opportunity. ScotWind Leasing will present Scotland as an attractive destination for the significant investment needed to deliver the scale of offshore wind projects we want to see.”

If you would like to read more articles like this then please click here.