The Welsh government’s offshore wind task and finish group has launched an “ambitious blueprint” to capture the wider economic value of more than 15GW capacity that could potentially be deployed in Welsh waters.
Key actions from the report – which outlines the investments, planning reforms, port upgrades and supply chain development needed to secure opportunities for local communities – include creating longer-term visibility of Crown Estate leasing rounds, attracting a major engineering and construction contractor to Wales to “anchor economic activity” and establishing a Welsh government implementation team.
RenewableUK’s head of supply chain Ajai Ahluwalia welcomed the action plan, adding: “We are pleased to see clear, practical actions that respond directly to industry calls for greater certainty, stronger collaboration and urgent delivery.
“Offshore wind is one of the UK’s greatest industrial opportunities – with the potential to transform Wales’ heartland sectors, like steel and advanced manufacturing.
“Over the next decade alone, £32bn in economic value is at stake, including a £4.8bn opportunity for Welsh businesses and 3,370 well-paid jobs. To unlock that value we must now move swiftly from planning to implementation – and industry stands ready to work with government to make that happen.”