Trade body RenewableUK has called for wave and tidal stream to be included in the UK’s forthcoming industrial strategy due to its job creation potential in less prosperous regions.
In the ‘Ocean Energy Race’ report published ahead of today’s RenewableUK Wave and Tidal conference in London, chief executive Hugh Neal said the sector is a “natural growth area” for Britain.
The report highlights job creation in four UK marine “clusters”: Wales, the Scottish Highland and Islands, southwest England, and the Isle of Wight and the Solent.
McNeal said marine is delivering industrial benefit to Britain through academic research, engineering design and construction, ports, tourism and professional services.
“Britain excels at research and development but too often we have failed to reap the socio-economic benefits from the commercialisation of our innovations,” he added.
“Marine energy provides us with an opportunity to change that narrative.”
Image: Hugh McNeal (RenewableUK)
