£1.4 million awarded to offshore wind manufacturers
Summary
The Offshore Wind Growth Partnership (OWGP) has announced the recipients of its first-ever Manufacturing Facility Support Programme (MFSP).A total of \xa31.4m has been awarded to ARC Marine, DFS Composites, Global Energy Nigg, Venterra Group and W3G Marine to develop new manufacturing facilities or expand existing ones.This funding aims to increase production capacity for key offshore wind components, equipment and systems that address the critical manufacturing priorities outlined in the UK Governments Industrial Growth Plan.The MFSP provides matched funding of up to \xa3500,000, enabling early-stage investment and reducing risk for UK manufacturers.Alan West, managing director of Aberdeen-based W3G Marine, said: This funding will support the development of our seabed-supported tripod structure to enable turbine assembly onto floating foundations without the need for extensive port upgrades.The MFSP grant will allow us to further develop the business plan for the sites and ports we are already working with and join with the best parties to bring the solution to reality.Claire Canning, programme manager at OWGP, added: The Manufacturing Facility Support Programme will prove vital in enabling early-stage investment, providing companies with the necessary resources to develop new or additional production capacity.Unlocking new manufacturing capabilities, increasing capacity, and driving innovation will ensure the UK remains at the forefront of offshore wind technology, creating high-value jobs and enhancing global competitiveness.Dont miss the latest headlines with our twice-daily newsletter - sign up here for free.