ScottishPower Renewables (SPR) and the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult are to work together to identify collaborative projects to tackle some of the offshore wind sector’s key technology challenges.
The partners will prioritise SPR’s innovation needs for its portfolio of offshore wind projects, and identify UK companies with potential solutions to solve the challenges.
The first project will be a feasibility study to review efficiency opportunities in foundation fabrication, including potential opportunities for innovation.
SPR chief executive Keith Anderson said: “Innovation and further efforts to boost the supply chain in the UK are critical elements to continue driving down the costs of offshore wind.
“We hope that our work with ORE Catapult will deliver benefits for the entire industry.”
ORE Catapult operational performance director Chris Hill said: “This type of collaborative working agreement with SPR is an excellent example of how ORE Catapult can help offshore wind farm owner/operators engage with the UK supply chain to drive forward the resolution of key industry technology priorities, and create UK economic benefit through increased UK content in offshore wind projects.”
The announcement was made at the Offshore Wind Europe Conference 2017 in London.
Image: reNEWS
