Offshore wind power project could generate more jobs for contractors

A north-east engineering firm has announced increased job opportunities due to a government grant, allowing them to embark on further offshore wind technology research.

Contractors with skills in this sector, may be pleased to hear that the company, Offshore Group Newcastle (OGN) North Sea Ltd, will be creating up to 1,000 new long-term jobs.

This has all been made possible due to the £640,250 grant it received from the Department of Energy and Climate Change’s Offshore Wind Component Technologies Development and Demonstration Scheme.

Energy and Climate Change Minister Greg Barker said, “The coalition is determined to drive ambitious green growth and this is putting our money where our mouth is.  This cash shows we are delivering on our commitment to support innovation and offshore wind.

“Making wind turbines more efficient is common sense and will help bring down the costs, making them more attractive to build and helping us increase the amount of electricity we get from clean, green sources.

“It’s great to see OGN North Sea Ltd stepping up to the challenge to ensure offshore wind energy is produced in the most cost-effective way.”

The firm has said that it will be building a prototype steel-jacketed foundation later this year at its site in Wallsend, Tyne and Wear and it is hoped that 17 per cent of all UK electricity production will be provided by offshore wind by 2020.

Contractors who are working within this sector, may find their skills being sought out for this massive project, which is not only creating up to 1,000 new jobs, but helping the environment too.

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