The Scottish government has announced a new funding of up to £2m to promote innovation in the offshore wind sector and to cut down development costs.
Image: Offshore wind farm. Photo: courtesy of xedos4/Freedigitalphotos.net.
The funding is targeted at supporting innovation across the sector to reduce long-term costs, improving health and safety standards, and widening educational opportunities within the industry.
Grants have been awarded to Carbon Trust’s Offshore Wind Accelerator, Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult and, Energy Skills Partnership in support of offshore wind programmes they are delivering.
Speaking at the 2018 Global Offshore Wind Conference and Exhibition, Scotland Economy Secretary Keith Brown said: “Our aspiration is for Scotland to be a great innovator in the offshore wind sector and this £2 million Scottish Government funding will further support the industry.
“Scotland’s Energy Strategy sets out the continuing opportunities for innovation within the offshore wind sector, and this grant demonstrates our determination to help realise that potential, including bringing growth and high value jobs to Scotland’s economy.
“Offshore wind has a key role to play in achieving our ambitious energy targets and delivering a low-carbon energy system. Scotland has massive offshore wind potential and this funding will help ensure that our world-leading offshore wind sector develops successfully and sustainably.”
Carbon Trust offshore wind director Jan Matthiesen said: “This latest investment demonstrates the Scottish Government’s confidence in the Offshore Wind Accelerator to deliver on its ambition to lower the cost of energy from offshore wind through industry-led research and development.”
ESP director Jim Brown said: “ESP is delighted to receive this funding from the Scottish Government, which will have a major impact in supporting Scotland’s colleges in addressing the skills challenges facing the Wind industry.”
ORE Catapult CEO Andrew Jamieson said: “Innovation is at the heart of ensuring Scotland’s success in the offshore wind sector, and we are delighted to be working in partnership with the Scottish Government.
“This funding will help to improve service vessels, offshore communications, and robotics and artificial intelligence, and ensure that Scottish companies are well placed to take advantage of the job growth, export opportunities and economic benefits that the sector provides.”
Source: Company Press Release