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2
Nov

Wind Turbines

Maybe it’s not all ‘Hot Air’ after all. The new coalition Government have now acknowledged the real value in supporting green energy production in the form of £60 million wind energy investment. Clarity of understanding is moving the government away from the required budget cutbacks from missing a real economic (albeit long-term) investment in the sustainability and security of UK energy supply.

The outlay will support the offshore wind infrastructure at port sites, to help meet the increasing needs of manufacturers looking to generate new facilities in the UK and surrounding waters. Essentially the investment will ensure that port infrastructure does not delay the deployment of offshore wind manufacturing.

Chris Huhne, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, said

There is more to do if we want to stay leaders in offshore wind. We want the jobs, manufacturing and skills base for this exciting new industry to be here in the UK, and we are taking decisions that attract investment.

And indeed it appears investment is already in the pipeline, with the likes of G.E, Siemens, and Gamesa planning to invest up to £300 million between them by 2014. Siemens is already on track to build a new £80 million wind turbine factory, which will produce 150 meter tall, 6MWh direct-drive offshore wind turbines, creating up to 700 long-term jobs in the process. Vince Cable, Business Secretary, said,

The government’s approach to growth and investment is the right one. Renewable technology is a priority, and I am delighted that foreign investors also recognise our commitment to environmentally sustainable growth.

Further good news came when the DECC and The Crown Estate both signed a ‘Letter of Intent’ to support development of ports infrastructure for offshore wind. The Crown Estate will work with specific ports and manufacturers in order to fully realise and develop the potential within their sites. For more information regarding the developments of UK offshore energy manufacturing you can be sure Torse will bring you the latest news and views.

Category : Alternatives / Energy Production / Legislation