RenewableUK, alongside the Offshore Wind Industry Council, The Crown Estate, and Crown Estate Scotland, has unveiled an ambitious Industrial Growth Plan to triple manufacturing capacity in the UK offshore wind sector over the next decade.
With 32,000 employees currently, the UK offshore wind industry is poised for significant growth. Each new large-scale offshore wind farm contributes £2-3bn to the economy, with employment projected to surpass 100,000 by 2030. Investment in new offshore wind projects could generate an economic opportunity worth up to £92bn for the UK by 2040.
Under the plan, 10,000 jobs will be created annually, fueling a £25bn boost to the UK economy between now and 2035. This growth hinges on the country accelerating its offshore wind deployment to meet its net zero targets, aiming for 5-6GW of capacity annually. Notably, the UK boasts the second-largest global pipeline of offshore wind projects, with nearly 100GW at various stages of development, six times its current capacity.
The Industrial Growth Plan outlines a strategic approach to building up new factories and manufacturing capabilities to mitigate supply chain risks and foster economic growth. It also highlights key technology areas for priority investments, including offshore wind blades, turbine towers, foundations, and cables.
Moreover, the plan emphasizes the expansion of testing facilities to accommodate cutting-edge technology, such as new materials for blades and designs for floating offshore wind platforms.
RenewableUK’s chief executive, Dan McGrail, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving these ambitious goals, stating, “Our Industrial Growth Plan […] shows that the UK will need three hundred giant turbine towers every year for offshore wind projects between now and 2030 to deliver government targets.”
Government support is crucial in this endeavor, with Claire Coutinho noting, “Britain’s windswept shorelines give us a competitive advantage in the global race for energy. That’s why, since 2010, Britain has been second only to China in building new offshore wind.”
Through collaboration and strategic investment, the UK aims to solidify its position as a leader in offshore wind technology and drive sustainable economic growth for years to come.
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