150 jobs safeguarded as firm signs contract for world’s biggest windfarm off Yorkshire coast
AROUND 150 jobs have been safeguarded following the signing of a multi-million pound contract to transport and install cables for DONG Energy’s Hornsea Project One wind farm off the Yorkshire coast, which will be the biggest in the world.
DeepOcean, based in Darlington, has secured the deal to supply the energy company’s wind farm located 120km off the Yorkshire Coast – the first in history with a capacity of over one gigawatt (GW) and capable of supplying electricity more than one million homes.
DONG Energy has signed contracts with UK companies for other major components of the windfarm including offshore cables, the offshore reactive compensation station and the onshore substation.
Duncan Clark, Hornsea Project One director, said: “Throughout this project we’ve worked hard to ensure as much value as possible is realised by UK businesses. Today’s announcement further demonstrates both the UK’s ability to supply the offshore wind industry, and DONG Energy’s continuing commitment to investing in the UK.”
The contract was signed in Grimsby at a supply chain event held by DONG Energy to connect with potential new local suppliers.
Mr Clark added: “DONG Energy recognises its role in supporting the Government’s industrial strategy and building up the UK’s offshore wind supply chain. As we progress with the construction of our wind farms we have an important part to play in linking UK firms to develop the supply chain further and support this growing sector. We’re here in Grimsby today for that very reason, it’s really becoming a hub for offshore wind. Using UK suppliers for Hornsea Project One is just the start as we look to build more offshore wind farms here in the future.”
DeepOcean’s commercial director for cables and trenching, Pierre Boyde, said: “After our awards on the Race Bank & Walney Extension projects we are delighted to be further developing our relationship with DONG Energy.
“We have invested heavily in class leading installation and trenching technology with a strong focus on both safety and productivity. This award will safeguard 150 jobs in Darlington and the surrounding area as well as enabling us to offer significant opportunities to the UK supply chain.”
