ORE Catapult Plans Operations Base in Grimsby

The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult has revealed plans to open a base of operations in Grimsby which would service the offshore wind sector.

The announcement is part of ORE Catapult’s expansion plans in the Humber, which would create 50 to 70 jobs in the region in the next 10 years.

With a portfolio of 70 O&M projects, ORE Catapult said it is “aligning its activities with regional and national priorities, supporting the emerging Humber Offshore Wind Cluster and ensuring regional activities have a UK-wide impact.”

According to ORE Catapult, the Humber’s O&M cluster includes Ørsted’s expanding East Coast Hub, Innogy’s planned base for the Triton Knoll offshore wind project, and suppliers including CWind, James Fisher and Rix Sea Shuttles, and is supported by expertise in the wider Humber area, including Aura and the University of Hull.

“The Humber, with its energy heritage, location, and extensive experience of servicing offshore wind farms, has quickly established itself as the UK’s centre of excellence in operating and maintaining the existing UK offshore wind fleet,” said Chris Hill, Operational Performance Director for ORE Catapult.

“Therefore, it makes it the ideal location from which the Catapult can continue, and expand, its technology innovation and research activities, working with industry and academia to ensure the UK remains a world-leader in the global offshore wind sector.”

Ben George, former Director of Aura, has been appointed as General Manager in the Humber and will lead ORE Catapult’s growth in the region.