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Leading scientists and industry experts have joined forces to develop existing and emerging research to accelerate Scotland’s offshore wind sector.
The £2.5m project will address critical challenges in offshore wind technology, innovating to drive sustainable energy solutions and strengthen Scotland’s position as a leader in clean power.
Supporting communities
The partnership, led by the University of Edinburgh in collaboration with the University of Dundee and the Forth and Tay Offshore cluster (FTO) and supported by Edinburgh Innovations, will also benefit local communities through job creation, skills development, private investment and encouraging start-ups.
Experts say the east coast of Scotland is the ideal location for the programme as it is home to the majority of Scotland’s offshore wind farms in various stages of development, with a rich diversity of supply chain operators and world-class infrastructure.
Net-zero targets
Funding has been awarded through the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council’s (EPSRC) Place Based Impact Acceleration Account (PBIAA) scheme. The project is one of seven across the UK.
The funds effectively align the partnership’s aims with the UK government’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2045.
"This funding will enable us to push the boundaries of offshore wind technology, from improved design and engineering practices to enhanced environmental impact analysis. Our collaboration with the University of Dundee and the Forth and Tay Offshore Cluster will allow us to harness collective strengths and knowledge, leading to breakthroughs that will benefit the industry and society at large."
Professor Alasdair McDonald, Project lead and Chair in Renewable Energy Technology, University of Edinburgh.
"We’re excited to contribute to a project that has such immense potential to positively impact the offshore wind sector and beyond. This funding will provide a foundation for research that will continue to yield benefits for years to come."
David Webster, Chair of Forth and Tay Offshore Cluster and Commercial Director of Forth Ports.
"Scotland has a huge part to play in the future of offshore wind and this backing for the cutting-edge work led by the University of Edinburgh is a real opportunity to create local jobs and discover the solutions to our clean power ambitions. This investment will unlock more opportunities for economic growth in Scotland and across the UK and help us address climate challenges to protect future generations."
Lord Vallance, UK Science Minister.