GROW:OffshoreWind Launches GBP 3 Mln for UK O&M Innovation

GROW:OffshoreWind, supported by the Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN), has launched a £3m boost for companies looking to accelerate innovation in offshore Operation and Maintenance (O&M) technologies. 

The new funding call aims to support development of technologies that would strengthen the UK’s long-term offshore wind supply chain needs and focuses on equipping firms to provide components and services for the operation and maintenance of wind turbines, substations, marine vessels and environmental analysis.

Richard Ousey, Investment Panel Lead at GROW:OffshoreWind, announced details of the funding call at the All-Energy 2014 Conference in Aberdeen.

Based on UK Government projections, the O&M opportunity linked to offshore wind could be worth more than £2bn per annum by 2025. Analysis also indicates significant scope for UK content within this expenditure, with a 2012 report indicating that the UK O&M content of the Robin Rigg wind farm in the Solway Firth was 86%.

With 22 offshore wind farms now fully commissioned with a combined capacity of 3653MW, immediate and significant opportunities exist for English companies who are looking to either enter this market, or extend their existing presence.

The funding opportunity is a joint initiative between GROW:OffshoreWind, which works to help English companies win contracts and create employment in the offshore wind supply chain, and the KTN , an independent company established by the Technology Strategy Board to enhance the development and commercialisation of UK innovations.

Dr Nee-Joo Teh, Head of Renewable Energy at the Knowledge Transfer Network, said: “We believe the strength of UK innovation offers a significant opportunity to continue the growth of indigenous content in our offshore wind energy supply chain.

“O&M is an exceptional area for sustainable and high value UK employment. The Knowledge Transfer Network, under the leadership of the Technology Strategy Board, is therefore delighted to support the GROW:OffshoreWind Programme’s latest funding on accelerating offshore O&M technologies.”

GROW:OffshoreWind’s Richard Ousey concluded: “We are delighted to be working with the KTN and benefiting from its experience and insight, which has helped to frame this funding call and identify a clear market opportunity.

“Applicants can get support for a wide variety of costs including Technology Partners who will help with project delivery, Personnel costs and cost of Instruments and Equipment, Buildings and Land associated with the project.

“We’ve made the process as simple and straightforward as possible so applicants could potentially be accessing funding by the end of July. I’m anticipating a high level of interest in the funding and encourage companies to take advantage – there’s significant opportunity in the market and this support will help to unlock potential.”

The £3m funding call is open to SME (small and medium) and large manufacturers across England, with the deadline for Expressions of Interest applications set as 1pm on 20th June.