RenewableUK has described UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak’s Budget as a gamechanger for the country’s offshore wind manufacturing.
R-UK chief executive Hugh McNeal (pictured) said: “This is a big-bang moment for offshore wind manufacturing in the UK which will drive investment in a globally competitive domestic supply chain.
“The government is putting its support squarely behind the kind of strategic approach to securing supply chain investment which the industry has been making the case for during our intensive work with Ministers to deliver the green economic recovery this country needs.
“This new funding to develop world-class offshore wind hubs in Teesside and Humber is a clear example of levelling-up in action.
“There is a huge opportunity for UK’s offshore wind industry not only to supply UK projects but also to export to rapidly growing global markets.
“Today’s new funding for port upgrades and the award of new freeports represent a huge boost to our export ambitions.”
McNeal added that the next wave of renewable projects could inject £20bn of private investment into the economy and support over 12,000 jobs.
Ramping up onshore and offshore wind, alongside hydrogen and other renewables, is the “key to unlocking a rapid, low-cost transformation of the energy sector,” he said.
“We therefore welcome the new support for floating offshore wind and renewable hydrogen technologies announced today which will play a vital role in the UK’s net zero transition,” he added.
Co-Chair of the Offshore Wind Industry Council and Vattenfall UK Country Manager Danielle Lane said the Chancellor is right to highlight the fact that the UK needs investment in green growth and that offshore wind is an innovative industry.
“Our sector is working with Government to help deliver a green industrial revolution which will benefit all parts of the country. To meet our 2030 target we need to grow our offshore wind fleet four-fold in ten years and that offers a unique opportunity to boost UK manufacturing, particularly in turbine blades, towers, foundations and power cables.”
Meanwhile, Morag Watson, Director of Policy at Scottish Renewables, said the Budget recognises the future potential of renewables to drive economic growth in a green recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.
“The North East of Scotland is home to a world-renowned energy sector already and its skills and expertise will be vital as we decarbonise our economy. While funding to support the Aberdeen Energy Transition Zone, Global Underwater Hub and North Sea Transition Deal are to be welcomed, it is essential that these projects help deliver on net-zero,” she said.
Watson added: “Support for offshore wind infrastructure across the UK is also welcome, and we look forward to hearing details of the Scottish element of this announcement when they are agreed.”