RWE has showcased the first turbine blades being produced at Siemens Gamesa's factory in Hull for the 1,400 MW Sofia offshore wind project. The blades, each measuring 108 meters, will be fitted to 100 of the 14 MW offshore turbines that will power the wind farm.
The event, attended by RWE UK chair Tom Glover, included a tour of the manufacturing plant where guests observed the production process. Glover highlighted the significance of the blades' production, noting its importance for local communities. “To see these impressive turbine blades being produced, ready to be installed at our flagship Sofia offshore wind farm, is a fantastic demonstration of the true value that offshore wind brings to coastal communities, such as Hull,” he said. He also emphasized the broader potential for job creation across the renewable energy supply chain.
Siemens Energy UK&I vice president Darren Davidson also underlined the company's contribution to the project, stating that their Hull factory now employs over 1,300 people after recruiting more than 600 workers in the past year. “We are proud to be a key supplier to RWE on a number of UK projects, including manufacturing the blades for Sofia. It's great to have this project underway and unveil the first blade,” Davidson commented.
The Sofia offshore wind farm, situated on Dogger Bank in the central North Sea, 195 km off the northeast coast of England, began its offshore installation earlier this year. Completion is expected in 2026.
