Construction has begun on the operations and maintenance base for the 1100MW Inch Cape offshore wind farm at Montrose Port in Angus, Scotland.
The project, which already houses its marine coordination centre at the port, is expanding its presence with new offices, a 600m2 warehouse and quayside facilities.
Montrose-based Pert Bruce Construction is the main contractor and will also supply a 70-metre floating pontoon and quayside cranes.
Inch Cape project director John Hill said: “The start of work on our O&M base is another great milestone for the project and we are pleased to be working with Montrose Port Authority and Pert Bruce on the construction of these facilities. The O&M base will provide a significant number of highly skilled local jobs once in operation.”
Montrose Port Authority chief executive Tom Hutchison said: “This investment not only reinforces our position as a strategic hub for offshore renewables but also brings lasting economic benefits through skilled jobs and increased port activity, both essential to our responsibilities as a trust port.”
The new facilities are scheduled to be completed in early 2027 and will house around 50 long-term roles, including turbine technicians and office staff. Inch Cape has signed a 15-year O&M contract with turbine supplier Vestas, which will also be based at Montrose.
Pert Bruce Construction managing director Craig Bruce said: “As a Montrose-based business, we’re delighted to contribute to a development that brings significant long-term benefits to the community, while supporting Scotland’s transition to cleaner, greener energy.”
Inch Cape will feature 72 Vestas 15MW turbines and a single offshore substation, which was installed at the North Sea site in early August. Onshore substation and landfall works are also well advanced in Cockenzie, East Lothian.
First power is expected in late 2026 with commercial operation due in 2027. The project is owned in a 50/50 joint venture by ESB and Red Rock Renewables and will generate almost 5TWh of electricity each year, enough to power all homes in Scotland.