New Offshore Wind Technology Hub Launched in North East England

A state-of-the-art Technology Development Centre has officially opened its doors in Blyth, North East England, aiming to accelerate innovation within the UK’s burgeoning offshore renewable energy sector. This significant investment is set to bolster the region’s position as a global leader in clean energy technology and development.

Key Takeaways

• A new £6.3 million facility is now operational, dedicated to testing, validation, and demonstration for offshore renewable technologies.

Boosting Offshore Wind Innovation

The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult has unveiled its new Technology Development Centre, a £6.3 million facility designed to foster innovation in the UK’s offshore renewables industry. This cutting-edge, two-storey center will provide crucial testing, validation, and demonstration capabilities for companies developing products and services for offshore renewables. It complements the existing, globally unique services offered at ORE Catapult’s National Renewable Energy Centre in Blyth.

Steve Foxley, ORE Catapult Chief Executive, expressed enthusiasm for the new facility, stating, "We’re excited to open this fantastic new testing facility in Blyth – providing scalable and expansive development space for the latest innovators ready to power the offshore renewable energy industry." He highlighted the North East’s role in driving innovation and growth within the UK’s offshore wind sector, emphasizing that the center will be a vital tool for companies developing advanced technologies to support the nation’s journey towards achieving clean power by 2030.

The center will also play a role in advancing the testing of energy storage systems, including hydrogen and battery storage solutions.

A Collaborative Energy Ecosystem

This new facility is an integral part of the Energy Central Campus, a collaborative initiative involving ORE Catapult, Port of Blyth, and Northumberland County Council. The campus aims to bolster the clean energy sector by creating educational opportunities, training programs, and employment pathways for the local community.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness remarked on the creation of "great green energy jobs" in the region, calling the new facility "proof we’re a world leader in this industry." She linked its opening to the recent launch of the Energy Central Learning Hub, underscoring a strategic investment in both technology and the skills needed for future green energy employment. McGuinness described this as a "turning point" for the region.

Investment and Regional Impact

The 1500sqm facility, converted from a former paper storage shed, was made possible through a combination of investments: £2 million from the North East Combined Authority, £2 million from the Blyth Town Deal, £1.3 million from Innovate UK, and £1 million from ORE Catapult.

Councillor Glen Sanderson, Leader of Northumberland County Council, celebrated the development as "another great day for Northumberland and the wider region," showcasing the "cutting-edge innovation that the north east is famous for." He noted that Blyth is solidifying its reputation as an international hub for renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, with the new center bringing jobs and skill development opportunities, contributing to the town’s revitalization.

Dave Wilkes, Director of Innovation Ecosystem at Innovate UK, acknowledged the long-standing support for ORE Catapult’s mission to position innovative UK businesses at the forefront of global offshore renewable energy supply chains. He stated that the investment in this new facility "demonstrates the importance of the North East of England as a centre of excellence in this field of technology."

Sources

• New multi million pound offshore wind Technology Development Centre opens for business, Northumberland County Council.

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