During the development phase of Atlantic Array, RWE npower renewables have been monitoring the UK contracts they have awarded.
As of the end of February 2013, 11.5% of contracts for Atlantic Array have been placed in Devon, with a further 10.9% being placed with companies located in the South West. This equates to almost £2 million worth of contracts awarded to Devon based suppliers and around a further £1.8 million awarded to suppliers based in other areas of the South West.
Craig Harwood, Project Manager for Atlantic Array , said: “Offshore wind farm developments, such as Atlantic Array, present significant economic opportunities. We have been working hard to ensure that the local area benefits from the project both during the development phase and looking further ahead to construction and operation.
“Since being awarded the rights to develop the Atlantic Array wind farm in 2010 we have taken part in nine supply chain events at locations such as Barnstaple, Exeter and Bristol. South West companies such as Falmouth based LDD Ltd have already found work in the industry supplying the Gwynt y Mor Offshore Wind Farm, a project which we are currently constructing off the coast of North Wales.
“We plan to continue our engagement with local suppliers during 2013 to ensure they are well placed to provide services and realise the significant opportunities the Atlantic Array proposal could bring.”
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Press release, March 20, 2013; Image: lddrill