European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) and the West of Orkney wind farm have launched a £1m research and innovation programme for novel solutions to help deliver offshore wind faster, cheaper and at lower risk.
The first in a series of innovation calls under the Offshore Wind R&I Programme has opened for applications, with up to £300,000 available to projects.
A series of innovation calls will address different challenge areas facing the West of Orkney wind farm, spanning metocean, installation, logistics, and operations and maintenance (O&M).
The R&I Programme will sponsor innovative projects to help the supply chain bring new solutions to market, build operational capacity and scale up activities.
Successful applicants may also get support with developing a robust project proposal, accessing alternative grant funding and access to EMEC’s world-leading test and demonstration sites.
The first innovation call is looking for solutions that address either understanding how metocean conditions at and en route affect to the West of Orkney wind farm site, or how to design for short weather window installations to maximise opportunities for efficient installation.
The innovation call will close at 1pm on 12 February, 2024.
Dr Heather Turnbull, Offshore Wind R&I Programme project manager at EMEC, said: “Working with the West of Orkney wind farm, we’re aiming to accelerate innovation in the north of Scotland, reducing the time, cost and risk of offshore wind roll out, while enhancing supply chain capacity in the region. This programme aims to help businesses grow and create jobs, bringing skills, capabilities and economic benefit closer to wind farm projects.
“The innovation calls have been designed to support companies explore ways to overcome the technical challenges facing offshore wind developments, giving them the tools needed to help build out offshore wind projects throughout Scotland, the UK and further afield.
“We’re also looking to bring in additional industry sponsors to broaden the remit of the programme to other offshore wind developments across the region.”