The US offshore wind industry is primed to deliver on its multi-gigawatt promise despite confidence being knocked by permitting delays, IPF20 Livestream heard.
Philippe Kavafyan, CEO of turbine manufacturer MHI Vestas, told delegates on Thursday the necessary elements are there for the sector to succeed.
The Frenchman meanwhile said securing enough workers is a key task for developers. “Our challenge will be about people, people and people,” he said.
More on Kavafyan’s comments can be found in the reNEWS IPF20 Livestream daily, published today.
The daily, which covers the final sessions of this summer’s Business Network for Offshore Wind-organised event, also reports details of Equinor’s plans for floating wind in the US.
Meanwhile, Danish giant Orsted’s strategy for driving local content across its 3GW portfolio is reported in depth.
The developer has already begun screening companies to supply components for turbine foundations including internal platforms, boat landings, anodes, cranes and ladders.
“These secondary steel components punch far above their weight when it comes to economic benefits, supply chain opportunities and job creation,” senior supply chain development manager Grant van Wyngaarden told IPF20 Livestream.
The Network’s CEO Liz Burdock meanwhile gives the summer’s sign off with an upbeat message on the prospects for the sector in the coming years.