RenewableUK, in collaboration with The Crown Estate and Crown Estate Scotland, has initiated the development of a comprehensive Industrial Growth Plan (IGP) to propel the long-term growth of the UK offshore wind sector. The trio has enlisted the support of KPMG to facilitate the plan's development, which is set to build on the recent Supply Chain Capability Analysis revealing a £92 billion opportunity for the UK. The analysis emphasized the need for the nation to enhance its capacity and expertise in specific key areas.
The forthcoming IGP will extend these insights, outlining priorities and programs designed to strengthen the UK's competitive position in the rapidly expanding global offshore wind market. It aims to address innovation needs, leverage existing capabilities, and close supply gaps that pose a risk to domestic targets. The strategic approach outlined in the IGP will guide future investments as the UK endeavors to fortify its domestic clean energy supply chain amidst intensifying global competition.
The decision to develop an IGP was a key recommendation in the final report to the UK government by Offshore Wind Champion Tim Pick. The report emphasized the importance of a strategic competency analysis considering the UK's comparative advantages to position the British industry to harness the global boom in offshore wind and deliver a pipeline of domestic projects.
Industry stakeholders stress the essential nature of a robust plan for industry growth to meet London's offshore wind and energy security targets, aiming to maximize benefits in terms of jobs, growth, and achieving net zero. The final version of the Industrial Growth Plan is anticipated to be published in early 2024.
RenewableUK Chief Executive Dan McGrail underscored the significance of the strategic approach, stating, “The Industrial Growth Plan will set out strategies for capturing value across the lifecycle and steer investment into critical areas to grow the economy and secure our energy future.”
