Under the MoU, Global Underwater Hub and Scottish Enterprise will identify and bring together the companies, organizations, facilities, resources and expertise that can support the growth of the floating offshore wind industry in the UK and internationally.
The partnership will also work on identifying gaps in the UK’s underwater supply chain capability, infrastructure, resources and expertise, relative to the needs of the floating wind market, with targeted support provided to fill those gaps. Focus areas include subsea cable systems, mooring and anchoring as well as underwater operations and maintenance, according to a press release from Global Underwater Hub.
Furthermore, funding and project development are also within the scope of the partnership. In this area, Global Underwater Hub and Scottish Enterprise will be working together to co-design and develop initiatives which will make use of public sector funding to support projects in the supply chain.
The partnership also plans to develop and execute joint strategies for business growth services, investment campaigns and foreign direct investment, including financial support and products to attract industry stakeholders, maximizing efficient use of resources and reducing duplication.
“Our vision is for Scotland to be viewed around the world as a centre of excellence for offshore wind, with supply chains that are world-leading in terms of value, competitiveness and service”, said Suzanne Sosna , Scottish Enterprise’s Director for Energy Transition.
“Collaborative working is essential to the future success of the sector. This MoU ensures we will operate hand-in-hand with Global Underwater Hub to really maximise opportunities for supply chain companies, but also to get us to that place where the rest of the world looks to Scotland for the supply chain that will power the energy sector of the future.”