A coalition of Scottish ports has come together to establish the Scottish Offshore Wind Ports Alliance (SOWPA), with the aim of maximizing opportunities in the offshore wind sector.
Comprised of ports boasting extensive experience in manufacturing, fabrication, marshalling, assembly, and operations & maintenance, SOWPA includes prominent members such as Port of Nigg, Ardersier, Port of Cromarty Firth, Port of Aberdeen, and Stornoway.
The alliance seeks to capitalize on the burgeoning offshore wind industry in the UK by enhancing regional competitiveness, driving efficiencies, and accelerating expertise development.
Iain Sinclair, Executive Director of Global Energy Group, emphasized the pivotal role of ports in supporting the offshore wind sector, stating, “It is widely recognised that ports have a critical enabling role in the industrialisation and deployment of offshore wind in the UK.”
Sinclair highlighted the proactive approach of the ports involved, noting, “Today's announcement demonstrates that ports are motivated to take the initiative, work proactively and diligently together, and align with the whole offshore wind ecosystem, to maximise the localisation of the supply chain requirements.”
The alliance aims to optimize large-scale operations and tackle common industry challenges through collaboration and knowledge sharing. Sinclair emphasized the collective capability, knowledge, and expertise of SOWPA as a leading value proposition.
Minister for Climate Action Gillian Martin underscored the importance of ports in unlocking Scotland's offshore wind potential, emphasizing the role of private investment alongside government support. Martin stated, “Partners across the sector and wider supply chain have already shown a strong appetite to take a strategic and collaborative approach to delivering investment in ports.”
