UK Energy Supply Chain Gains Support with Relaunch of Pathfinder Contract Portal

The UK’s energy supply chain is set to benefit from greater visibility of contract opportunities following the relaunch of the Energy Pathfinder portal, a digital platform designed to advertise upcoming work in the offshore and onshore wind sectors.

The updated portal, managed by the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA), was unveiled at RenewableUK’s Global Offshore Wind 2025 conference in London. The enhanced version includes dedicated sections for floating and fixed-bottom offshore wind projects, in addition to wider energy transition initiatives.

Originally developed in 2010 to help offshore service providers access oil and gas contract opportunities, the Pathfinder platform has expanded over the years. It now includes information on well decommissioning, operations and maintenance programmes, and increasingly, renewable energy projects.

“The UK’s offshore supply chain has the skills and expertise to service all areas of the UK energy sector, and make the transition a reality,” said NSTA Chief Executive Stuart Payne. “That’s why it’s such good news that Pathfinder now has more opportunities in the wind sector, creating a one-stop shop for upcoming contracts.”

The initiative has gained backing from industry bodies including RenewableUK and Scottish Renewables, as well as the Offshore Wind Industry Council (OWIC) and the Scottish Offshore Wind Energy Council. The groups have begun encouraging members to use the platform to share contracting opportunities tied to wind energy projects.

Jane Cooper, deputy chief executive of RenewableUK, said the tool will help bridge the gap between project developers and local suppliers.
“Growing the UK’s onshore and offshore wind supply chains are key priorities for our industry,” she said. “The upgraded Pathfinder portal will help developers to get in touch with suppliers more easily, which will create opportunities for more products and services to come from companies based in the UK.”

The relaunch aims to improve transparency and coordination across the supply chain, with over 20 offshore wind projects currently listed. The new layout offers clearer categorisation by technology type and more detailed contract descriptions.

Emma Harrick, director of supply chain and energy transition at Scottish Renewables, said the improved platform will enhance access for businesses across the UK.
“Clean energy already supports 47,000 jobs in Scotland and as the industry continues to grow, so do opportunities for suppliers,” she said. “The portal now provides on and offshore wind businesses with clear visibility of available tender invitations while enabling developers to connect with a broader network of local companies.

The upgraded Pathfinder is expected to serve as a central hub for wind industry contracts, encouraging participation from all tiers of the supply chain and supporting the UK’s broader transition to low-carbon energy sources.