£2.5 million project to advance Scotland’s offshore wind sector launched

The universities of Dundee and Edinburgh, in collaboration with Forth & Tay Offshore, have officially launched a £2.5 million innovation programme designed to drive advancements in Scotland’s offshore wind sector.

Academia, industry leaders and policymakers came together at the launch to foster collaboration and accelerate innovation within the project, called Accelerating Innovation in the Forth and Tay Offshore Wind Cluster.

Researchers from both the universities discussed potential projects and explored meaningful ways to engage with industry, at the event held at Edinburgh Futures Institute, at the University of Edinburgh.

Academics also presented the initiative’s vision to around 70 organisation representatives and selected partners who attended to hear how businesses can participate in and benefit from the work project.

Existing collaborations between the universities and offshore wind sector stakeholders were showcased, demonstrating the power of research-driven industry partnerships.

Professor Michael Brown, from the University of Dundee’s School of Science and Engineering, said, “The engagement from industry at our launch event was very encouraging.

“It was clear that challenges lie ahead for the offshore wind sector in the East of Scotland, however a collaborative approach is well placed to help deliver those ambitious plans.”

Discussions underscored significant potential for the offshore wind supply chain, particularly for businesses based in the Forth and Tay region or those actively partnering with local industry. 

Insights into the research being conducted by both universities were revealed during a tour of the FloWave facility, at the University of Edinburgh, demonstrating its wave and current simulation technologies.

This highlighted the practical applications of academic expertise in advancing offshore wind capabilities.

Professor Alasdair McDonald, Chair in Renewable Technologies at the University of Edinburgh, said, “Our official launch of the funding programme marks a significant step in strengthening Scotland’s offshore wind sector through place-based innovation, industry collaboration, and targeted funding support.”

The UKRI-funded Place-Based Impact Accelerator Account programme hopes to drive meaningful progress in offshore wind innovation, foster sustainable growth and long-term impact across Scotland’s renewables sector.