North East Launches Decade-Long Offshore Wind Strategy to Fuel Green Economy
A comprehensive 10-year vision and strategy for the future of offshore wind in North East England has been officially launched, outlining how the region can build on its status as a major contributor to the UK's renewable energy sector. The plan, titled the 10 Year Vision and Strategy for North East England Offshore Wind, was unveiled at the Energi Coast Supply Chain Showcase held at The Boiler Shop in Newcastle city centre.
Strategic Focus on Industrialisation and Innovation
The strategy zeroes in on the North East's pivotal role in shaping the next phase of offshore wind industrialisation across the United Kingdom. It details how the region can accelerate momentum in offshore wind over the coming decade, setting benchmarks in offshore electrical solutions and spearheading the development of deeper-water technologies.
Commissioned by the UK energy sector network NOF on behalf of the North East Combined Authority and Tees Valley Combined Authority, the strategy was developed with robust support from Energi Coast, the North East of England's dedicated offshore wind cluster.
Building on Existing Strengths
The North East already stands as a significant player in the UK's offshore wind industry, boasting:
- Substantial port infrastructure
- Extensive capabilities in manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly
- Advanced logistics and operations and maintenance services
- A world-class supply chain
The new vision aims to leverage these existing strengths to maximize opportunities, ensuring the unlocking of high-quality job prospects and bolstering the local economy. Simultaneously, it seeks to fortify the UK's offshore wind supply chain for the long term.
Capitalising on Key Capabilities
The strategy suggests the region can harness its expertise in several advanced areas to drive further employment and economic growth, including:
- Advanced components and smart fabrication
- Sustainable materials and environmental services
- Data science, robotics, and logistics
Timely Launch Following Major Announcement
This launch comes hot on the heels of last week's announcement from The Crown Estate, which revealed that a new offshore wind leasing round in 2027 could accommodate a capacity of approximately 6GW or more. The identified area is predominantly located off the coast of the North East and could lead to the creation of up to 10,000 direct jobs and a potential economic boost to the UK exceeding £12 billion.
Leadership Perspectives on the Strategy
Joanne Leng, chief executive of NOF, which owns and operates Energi Coast, stated: "Given the opportunity before us—highlighted by The Crown Estate's recent announcement opening up to 6GW of additional capacity off the North East Coast—it was crucial that North East England has a roadmap for growth in the next decade of offshore wind. That roadmap is now in place, and we eagerly anticipate supporting its delivery and witnessing the region's outstanding capabilities continue to evolve."
Tony Quinn, chair of Energi Coast, added: "The North East of England is rapidly becoming the epicentre of the UK's energy transition. With 10GW of Offshore Wind in various stages and planning for another 6GW, it is imperative we have a strategy that clearly articulates how we intend to maximize economic opportunity and contribute significantly to the UK's future energy security."
Alignment with Local Growth Plans
Both the North East Combined Authority and Tees Valley Combined Authority have positioned offshore wind and clean energy at the core of their Local Growth Plans and broader strategies. North East mayor Kim McGuinness has previously unveiled ambitions to double the number of green jobs to 50,000 by 2035, while the TVCA aims to expand its cluster of 17,000 jobs in offshore wind and wider clean energy technologies.
Mayor McGuinness commented: "I aim to double green energy jobs in our region by 2035, and this strategy demonstrates how offshore wind can power the next decade of those jobs. It aligns directly with my £130 million Plan for Green Jobs, ensuring local people benefit from the green energy revolution through secure work, skills, and opportunity."
Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen concluded: "The North East is already at the forefront of the UK's offshore wind sector. This new vision will build on our strengths to ensure we seize the full opportunity ahead. Our skilled workforce, proud industrial heritage, and clear ambition mean we can create more high-quality jobs and ensure local people and firms benefit directly from the enormous opportunities in this sector."
