The UK Government has committed over £55 million to expand the Port of Cromarty Firth in Scotland. This investment aims to establish the port as a key hub for the growing floating offshore wind industry. The move will create hundreds of skilled jobs and stimulate economic growth, aligning with the government’s broader Plan for Change.
Accelerating the Shift to Clean Energy
The UK Government is focused on achieving clean power by 2030. Offshore wind projects, particularly floating offshore wind, play a critical role in this effort. The UK already operates the world’s largest grid-connected floating offshore wind farm. The government is also developing an additional 30GW of wind power capacity, strengthening its position as a clean energy superpower.
The Port of Cromarty Firth will become the first UK port capable of manufacturing floating offshore wind turbines on-site and at scale. This grant, from the Floating Offshore Wind Manufacturing Investment Scheme (FLOWMIS), will enable the port to support the growing offshore wind industry and boost the UK’s global renewable energy standing.
Creating Jobs and Supporting Economic Growth
During construction, the project will generate up to 320 jobs. Once the port becomes operational in 2028, it could provide around 1,000 skilled positions. These roles will support various sectors, including construction, installation, and operational support for offshore wind projects. This investment will help local communities and accelerate the UK’s transition to clean energy.
UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks highlighted the importance of using home-grown clean energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. He said, “By using clean energy from British coastlines, we can lower energy bills and reduce our reliance on unstable fossil fuel markets. This investment will create skilled jobs and support local growth, a priority in our Plan for Change.”
FLOWMIS: Supporting Offshore Wind Infrastructure
FLOWMIS, launched in 2023, offers grants for the development of port infrastructure for floating offshore wind. The Port of Cromarty Firth is one of two ports selected to receive funding, with Port Talbot also in the planning stages. This funding highlights the government’s commitment to expanding clean energy projects and maintaining the UK’s leadership in renewable energy.
The investment in offshore wind infrastructure not only helps meet clean energy goals but also contributes to economic growth in regions like Scotland. The development of the Port of Cromarty Firth will enhance the UK’s capacity for green energy production.
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