East of England Energy Group and Norwegian Offshore Wind both focus on developing world leading supply chains in offshore wind. These two organizations share the North Sea and have different strengths that will create valuable synergies. Norwegian Offshore Wind sees UK as the most attractive offshore wind market in Europe and has set up a dedicated working group to get their members into the UK projects.
"East of England is one of the major offshore wind hubs in the largest market in Europe. With the North Sea as a common sea basin with Norway, it will certainly benefit our members to strengthen the collaboration with the industry in this region," says Arvid Nesse, manager of Norwegian Offshore Wind.
East of England has emerged as one the main offshore wind hubs in the UK. Several of the large developers such as Scottish Power Renewables, RWE and Orsted are located in the region with large offshore wind projects such as Norfolk and East Anglia under development.
Furthermore, this region is home to a strong supply chain, and Port of Great Yarmouth is the installation base for Norfolk offshore Wind zone and O&M base for Dudgeon and Sheringham shoal.
"For us this MoU is a two-way street, also opening doors for UK companies targeting the Norwegian offshore wind market," says Alfred Risan leader for NOW's working group for the UK.
Norway has impressive ambitions in offshore wind. The government has set a target of 30 GW by 2040. Norway held the first auction earlier this year where Ventyr was awarded the Southern North Sea II area. The area has the potential of 1.5GW capacity. The next auctions are due in 2025, and 70% of the areas mapped as suitable for offshore wind will be floating.
East of England Energy Group (EEEGR) is located in Norfolk. It represents around 200 members across four counties in England and every energy sector – wind, gas, nuclear, solar, geothermal and more. They work closely with education providers, local authorities and government.
Kevin Keable, Chair of EEEGR, said, "This could be really important for our members to access the opportunity to find business in Norway, using skills and techniques developed in our region. We hope that our members can forge profitable and rewarding partnerships with our Norwegian neighbors."
