Contracts signed for major wind farm project
Dogger Bank and GE Renewable Energy have confirmed contracts that will see GE Renewable Energy’s 13MW Haliade-X turbine being installed for the first time.
The turbine can generate enough electricity to power a UK household for over two days with one spin of its blades and, once completed, the wind farm will generate enough clean electricity to power over 4.5 million UK homes, equating to around 5% of the UK’s electricity demand.
Dogger Bank, located off the coast of Teesside, will be the world’s biggest wind farm once completed and the recent deal will see 190 turbines installed across the initial two phases of the wind farm.
As part of the deal, Able Seaton Port in Hartlepool has been chosen as the base for GE Renewable Energy’s marshalling harbour activities and will be the base for turbine service equipment, installation and commissioning activities for Dogger Bank A and B.
As a result, 120 new skilled jobs will be created at the port during construction, with recruitment expected to start by early 2021.
Able Seaton Port was chosen because it has some of the strongest quays in Europe which were built specifically for the offshore energy sector.
Peter Stephenson, Able UK’s executive chairman, said: “We have enjoyed a long and constructive relationship with GE Renewable Energy culminating in this announcement – it’s a massive vote of confidence for the company and the UK.
“The offshore wind sector will increase four-fold by 2030, and with the increasingly demanding targets for low carbon power generation, there is an unparalleled level of market visibility.
“This industry is set to become a dominant factor in a post Covid-19 UK economy.”
Square One Law, which has offices in Leeds, Teeside and Newcastle, acted for long-standing client Able UK, in relation to the land agreement with GE at Able Seaton Port facility.
Michael Shuker, Teesside office partner, said: “Able’s reputation for delivery in this sector is well-respected and it’s fantastic to be part of this deal. It will be a great boost for both the jobs market and the region’s offshore wind credentials.
“It was also encouraging to hear Boris Johnson recently pledging investment into offshore wind farms saying they will generate enough electricity to power every home in the UK within a decade.”
