The UK needs to develop its port infrastructure if the domestic supply chain is to reap maximum benefits from the buildout of 40GW of offshore wind by 2030, according to industry experts.
East of England offshore wind cluster champion and James Fisher Marine Services strategy director Martin Dronfield told delegates at RUK’s virtual Global Offshore Wind conference that government support was needed to create ports fit for the future of offshore wind.
He said investing in ports can help the industry deliver on 60% lifetime local content targets for 2030.
“Looking at the size and scale of future developments off the UK, the country must develop further port infrastructure,” he told delegates this afternoon.
Dronfield said UK ports had great potential for development to support future projects, but said heavy investment is needed.
“This kind of development needed will require a large amount of capital and improving of ports at a national scale will need government funding,” he said.
Andrew MacDonald, programme director for the Offshore Wind Growth Partnership, said a clear roadmap for offshore wind development in the UK will help ensure the country has ports to meet industry needs.
“A roadmap would help different locations can see what kind of activities they need to develop port infrastructure to support,” he added.
Options include supporting the fabrication of floating foundations, O&M and marshalling large components during installation.
MacDonald said the industry still has work to do to convince the government splash the cash on port upgrades.
“Ports are a large-scale investment. It’s up to the industry to get the right people around a table and give the government a clear steer on what is needed and when,” he said.