The Port of Cromarty Firth is set to become the UK’s first facility capable of manufacturing floating offshore wind turbines at scale, following a £55.7M government investment to drive clean energy growth and create up to 1,000 skilled jobs.
The funding, provided through the Floating Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Scheme (FLOWMIS), will enable the port’s expansion, solidifying its role as a key hub for the UK’s floating offshore wind sector. Construction work is expected to begin soon, with full operational capacity targeted for early 2028.
Boosting UK’s Floating Offshore Wind Industry
This investment aligns with the UK government’s Plan for Change, accelerating the transition to clean power by 2030. The UK already leads the world in floating offshore wind, home to the largest grid-connected floating wind farm, with an additional 30GW of capacity in development.
The Port of Cromarty Firth will be the first UK facility capable of full-scale floating offshore wind turbine assembly, marking a significant step forward in supply chain development. The government’s backing is expected to unlock further private investment, bolstering the sector’s growth.
Job Creation and Economic Growth
The port expansion will initially create 320 construction jobs, while its full-scale operation will support up to 1,000 roles across turbine assembly, marine engineering, and offshore logistics.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks highlighted the project’s importance: “Floating offshore wind is critical to the UK’s energy security and transition to clean power. This investment will create hundreds of skilled jobs, boost local economies, and strengthen our position as a global leader in renewable energy.”
Scottish Secretary Ian Murray added: “Scotland plays a key role in the UK’s clean energy future. This investment is a significant vote of confidence in the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport and will drive long-term economic growth in the region.”
Strategic Industry Support
The FLOWMIS funding is part of broader government efforts to accelerate clean energy infrastructure. Alongside the Clean Industry Bonus, which incentivises developers to invest in UK supply chains, these initiatives are designed to enhance domestic manufacturing capacity and reduce reliance on imported components.
The Port of Cromarty Firth is one of two UK ports selected for FLOWMIS funding, with Port Talbot also under development as a future offshore wind hub.
Alex Campbell, Chief Executive of Port of Cromarty Firth, welcomed the funding: “This investment is a critical step towards establishing the UK’s first dedicated floating offshore wind integration port. It provides certainty for further private investment and strengthens the UK’s leadership in clean energy.”
As the UK pushes towards net zero targets, the Port of Cromarty Firth’s expansion is set to play a pivotal role in delivering homegrown, renewable energy, while supporting local economies and skilled job creation.
Image courtesy: Port of Cromarty
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