The UK produces more offshore wind than any other European country, making it the backbone for plans to deliver a clean power system by 2030 and become a clean energy superpower. Industrial heartlands and coastal areas are set to receive a major economic boost as the government backs renewable energy firms investing in industrial communities.
The Clean Industry Bonus has opened for application, and will provide financial support for offshore wind developers on the condition they prioritise their investment in areas that need it most. The government particularly wants to see companies prioritise job creation in traditional fossil fuel regions, some of the UKs most deprived areas, helping workers in engineering, electrical and welding roles move into offshore wind. Support is also being offered for developers who build more sustainable low-carbon factories, offshore wind blades, cables and ports to reduce industrial emissions across the clean energy supply chain, and counteract supply shortages that have been worsened by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The scheme comes with significant financial backing, with developers receiving £27 million per gigawatt of offshore wind projects. If firms commit to delivering 7-8GW of offshore wind, up to £200 million of funding could be made available.
Dan McGrail, chief executive of RenewableUK, said: “Government initiatives like the Clean Industry Bonus, coupled with industry initiatives to support innovation and the upcoming Industrial Strategy, could drive hundreds of millions of pounds of private investment into new manufacturing.” “The offshore wind industry already employs over 34,000 people in the UK, but there’s an opportunity to treble this number by the end of the decade if we grow the sector’s supply chain.
Coastal areas stand to see particular benefit, as Energy Secretary Ed Milliband said; “this is our clean energy superpower mission in action, kickstarting growth, delivering energy security and transforming towns and cities as part of the transition – from the ports of Nigg and Leith to the manufacturing hubs of Blyth and Hull.”