First meeting of new Government and industry partnership

The first meeting of the new offshore wind sector council will take place today co-chaired by Keith Anderson, Chief Corporate Officer (CCO) of ScottishPower and Business and Energy Minister Michael Fallon.

The meeting comes as Government and the industry prepare to deliver the offshore wind industrial strategy which will be published in the coming months. The strategy aims to increase investment in the UK supply chain and outline how Government and industry will work together to build and maintain a competitive advantage in this crucial sector.

Business and Energy Minister Michael Fallon said:

“Britain has a real chance to lead the world in the offshore wind sector, not least because of our weather. I am determined that Government and industry should work together and make sure the UK makes the most of the opportunity for growth and jobs that this sector presents, as well as a vital contribution to our energy mix.

“This first meeting of the offshore wind industry council is a step towards realising that objective. By building an enduring partnership between Government and industry, we can set out a clear strategy which encourages the development of the supply chain, and delivers a strong benefit to the UK economy.”

Keith Anderson, CCO of ScottishPower, said:

"It is vital that the renewable energy industry and the government continue to work closely together to unlock all of the social and economic advantages of developing offshore wind power, as well as the major environmental benefits.

“The UK continues to lead the world in offshore wind, and we need to use this position to leverage as much global investment as possible to secure jobs across the supply chain, and see infrastructure upgraded to support this industry. The offshore wind industrial strategy is an important development that should act as a blueprint to guide both the industry and the government in helping the UK to achieve these goals and benefits."

The offshore wind industrial strategy is one of eleven sectors that the Government has chosen to develop a long term strategic partnership to help realise the potential for growth this industry has in the UK.

Already the Government has published strategies in the Health and life sciences, aerospace, nuclear and oil and gas sectors which aim to boost skills, research and development, develop the UK supply chain and maintain the UK’s market share in these high growth industries.