The Future of UK Shipbuilding in Offshore Wind Industry

The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult, in collaboration with the National Shipbuilding Office and the Crown Estate, has chosen Cammell Laird shipyard to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the potential market for U.K.-built ships in offshore wind.

This initiative aims to enhance understanding of how the U.K. can provide vessel manufacturing capabilities to support the offshore wind sector, thereby creating job opportunities and driving economic growth in communities across the country.

Meeting the Growing Demand for Service Operation Vessels (SOVs)

With an estimated 850GW of offshore wind capacity set to be installed globally by 2050, there is a pressing need for an increase in the production of Service Operation Vessels (SOVs) to facilitate this expansion.

SOVs play a vital role in efficiently servicing and maintaining offshore wind farms, essentially serving as mobile offshore operations and maintenance bases. They are essential for supporting the growth of the offshore wind industry.

Expanding Global Market Potential

Analysis conducted by ORE Catapult indicates that hundreds of SOVs are projected to be in operation worldwide in the coming years, with a global market value of approximately $45.3 billion between now and 2050.

Lauren Hadnum, Clean Maritime Manager at ORE Catapult, stated, “This study will provide valuable insights into the steps needed to establish UK shipbuilding for offshore wind, fostering collaboration between industry and government to drive a successful and coordinated approach.”

Leading the Way in Sustainable Shipbuilding

APCL Cammell Laird expressed their enthusiasm for leading the UK SOV Manufacturing Business Case Development study, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the country’s position in offshore renewable vessel manufacturing.

Linton Roberts, APCL Group Chief Technology Officer, remarked, “As a prominent UK shipbuilder, we are dedicated to delivering a well-founded business case that will shape the future of sustainable shipbuilding and reinforce the UK’s role in the global offshore wind supply chain.”

“We are excited to collaborate closely with ORE Catapult, The Crown Estate, and the National Shipbuilding Office to advance this crucial initiative,” added Roberts.