Scottish Enterprise (SE) and Highlands & Islands Enterprise (HIE) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries to collaborate on the design and manufacture of floating offshore wind substructures. This agreement marks HD Hyundai Heavy Industries' first venture into Europe for floating offshore wind manufacturing.
The MoU, signed in Edinburgh, signifies a commitment to pursue opportunities for floating offshore wind projects in Scotland. HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, the world's largest shipbuilding company and a major manufacturer of equipment for offshore wind, will work with Scottish agencies to unlock expertise in floating offshore wind substructure design and manufacturing.
The Scottish government, SE, and HIE have committed up to £24.5 million in funding for this project, highlighting the strategic importance of floating offshore wind to Scotland's renewable energy transition and economic development.
Deputy First Minister Shona Robison emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “This partnership agreement is a vote of confidence in Scotland and our offshore wind industry – demonstrating our ability to develop the international relationships upon which investment that will help us reach our climate targets is founded.”
Hannae Choi, Senior Vice President of Corporate Planning Division and Wind Energy Business at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, expressed the company's commitment to expanding the offshore wind market, stating, “We plan to expand the market by leveraging our world-class know-how in designing and manufacturing floating structures.”
Emma Harrick, Head of Energy Transition and Supply Chain at Scottish Renewables, welcomed the partnership as a testament to Scotland's global leadership in renewable energy. Harrick also highlighted the importance of addressing key issues such as timely consenting, grid connections, and growing a local supply chain to maximize Scotland's offshore wind potential.
