A new group has been set up to ensure Scotland’s energy supply chain companies benefit from new floating offshore wind projects in the UK.
It has been formed as a subgroup of Scotland’s supply chain cluster DeepWind, which is currently managed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).
The new subgroup will be co-chaired by Andronikos Kafas from Ocean Winds and Julia Roope from Fugro and involves more than 200 members of the DeepWind cluster.
Its aim is to develop close ties with centres of innovation, such as the Floating Offshore Wind Centre of Excellence and the Carbon Trust’s Floating Offshore Wind Joint Industry Project.
The subgroup includes many of the floating substructure technology companies from across Europe that are looking to demonstrate systems in Scotland and the UK.
Kafas said: “We are excited to announce and co-chair the launch of the DeepWind FOW subgroup.
“OW is committed to DeepWind’s success and support programmes to bring developers and their Tier-1s closer to regional supply chain.
“The subgroup is currently the only floating offshore wind forum for direct discussion between developers/tier ones and the tiers two/three typically where most local content lives.
“The aim of the subgroup is to assist the sector and parent DeepWind group with horizon scanning, opportunity setting, and capacity building of Scottish companies, under the auspices of economic development agencies.”
Roope said: “The launch of the DeepWind FOW subgroup is a significant step in recognising the importance that floating technology plays in the future of offshore wind generation in Scotland and in supporting the UK’s leading role in offshore wind development.
“As co-chair, Fugro’s extensive offshore wind experience will be used to help our members develop supply chain opportunities, support the development of the skills needed to grow the sector, and foster the development of new technology through close ties with centres of innovation.”
The group held its first webinar last month to introduce the industry co-chairs and aims of the subgroup.
Focus areas for the group include cost reduction and the role of the supply chain, supply chain services and innovation that can result in time savings in the consenting process and support for technology development by local companies.
Other areas will address the local content challenge, provide updates on the Scottish market and signpost supply chain opportunities and the skills transition for floating offshore wind sector.
The image shows Equinor’s Hywind Scotland floating offshore wind farm.