Scottish Renewables has launched a new Clean Energy Cluster organisation at its Offshore Wind Conference in Glasgow, which it says is set to supercharge the growth of Scotland’s offshore wind supply chain.
The cluster will promote growth in the supply chain of Scotland’s offshore wind sector, with membership to include organisations based in or working across Scotland, from the Borders to the Highlands and Islands.
From ports and large-scale contractors to the complex ecosystem of small and medium enterprises, The Clean Energy Cluster will promote, connect and guide suppliers across the country looking to succeed in renewable energy, Scottish Renewables said.
The unified cluster will enhance business development opportunities, foster innovation, drive skills development and boost the global competitiveness of Scotland’s renewable energy supply chain, it added.
Scottish Renewables was last month appointed by the Scottish Offshore Wind Energy Council (SOWEC) as the Cluster Management Organisation, to move from the current model and establish a national supply chain cluster for Scotland.
The representative organisation will work closely with Scotland’s suppliers, enterprise agencies and academic institutions to place collaboration at the heart of The Clean Energy Cluster.
Emma Harrick, director of energy transition and supply chain at Scottish Renewables, said: “Scotland’s offshore wind supply chain is a crucial component of the green energy revolution.
“The remarkable entrepreneurial spirit shown by so many businesses in the sector is supporting the delivery of work packages as varied as munitions clearing, robotics, subsea inspection, port services and industrial workwear.
“The Clean Energy Cluster is a crucial step in fostering even stronger connections between Scotland’s supply chain and the developer community providing opportunities to boost innovation, create skilled jobs and accelerate the growth of Scotland’s diverse supplier network.
“A unified Scottish cluster will enhance support for all Scottish suppliers. We already have a wealth of suppliers supporting the renewable energy sector, including start-ups and those transitioning from other sectors, contributing their world-class expertise not only to projects in Scotland but worldwide.
“The Clean Energy Cluster will continue to work with the Scottish Offshore Wind Energy Council and represent the full renewable energy supply chain as we help to develop a sustainable, thriving, and internationally competitive supply chain here in Scotland.”
Acting minister for Climate Action and co-chair of the Scottish Offshore Wind Energy Council (SOWEC), Alasdair Allan said: “This national cluster will strengthen the support provided to Scotland’s offshore wind supply chain businesses and make a real difference to the sector.
“These businesses are a crucial element of our offshore wind economy, employing people in communities across Scotland. I look forward to engaging with the national cluster and supporting its aims in my role as SOWEC co-chair.”