Local partnerships driving offshore wind growth in East Anglia

The east of England has established itself as a leading hub for renewable energy – and local companies are playing their part in the sector’s success.

Only last month, Siemens Gamesa awarded a significant contract to Lowestoft-based North Star to build a hybrid service operations vessel (SOV) for long-term charter at ScottishPower Renewables’ East Anglia THREE wind farm off the Suffolk coast.

The contract keeps North Star on course to achieve its goal of adding 40 hybrid SOVs to its fleet by 2040 – and also means the firm will now support two of the world’s largest wind farms, having already delivered three of four planned SOVs to the Dogger Bank wind farm ahead of schedule.

“Securing this new contract is fantastic news for our teams in Lowestoft, where we have a strategically located east of England base – and a victory for the region,” said Andrew Duncan, renewables and innovations director at North Star.

“This project not only highlights our dedication to delivering high-performance, high-comfort sustainable vessels, but it also brings substantial economic benefits to our local community.

“By planning to add 34 to our team based here and creating opportunities for the local supply chain, we are investing in the town’s future and strengthening our ties with the region.

“We are proud to contribute to the growth and prosperity of Lowestoft, reinforcing its position as a key hub in the offshore wind industry.”

Andrew Duncan, renewables and innovations director at North Star (Image: North Star)
Andrew described ScottishPower Renewables (SPR), and its parent company Iberdrola Group, as “ideal partners” for North Star.

“Both companies are dedicated to advancing renewable energy, supporting local communities, and promoting sustainability,” he said.

“This alignment ensures that our collaboration will be both effective and beneficial, driving progress towards a greener and more sustainable future.”

North Star’s new vessel will be built to meet the requirements of Siemens Gamesa, which is supplying 95 wind turbines for SPR’s East Anglia THREE offshore wind farm.

“Our SOV fleet integrates the latest technological advancements, tailored to client needs for safe, continuous operations in diverse wind farm environments,” said Andrew.

“For example, our predictive maintenance and decision support software tools are industry-leading and will enable more efficiency, more reliable operations and improved power output to our wind farm clients.”

The East Anglia THREE vessel will accommodate up to 60 wind technicians for the East Anglia Hub. Its design will enhance operational efficiency and supports zero-carbon objectives.

“The vessel is equipped with a hybrid power management system, which includes batteries to enable peak load shaving and spinning reserve functionality when in ‘dynamic positioning’ mode,” said Andrew. “This saves around 20% of fuel compared to traditional diesel configurations.”

Gavin Smart, SPR’s UK & Ireland head of new business and supply chain strategy (Image: SPR)
Gavin Smart, SPR’s UK and Ireland head of new business and supply chain strategy, said: “More than a decade after we started working with suppliers in the east of England – and after tens of millions of investment in the region – it’s fantastic that we’re continuing to welcome new businesses like North Star to our local supply chain family in conjunction with Siemens Gamesa.

“Working with local businesses is important to the success of our projects and we’re really proud of what we’ve already achieved through East Anglia ONE and will continue to deliver through East Anglia THREE.

“These opportunities and achievements don’t just have a positive impact on the individual company, they become part of a much bigger story about how we contribute to wider local economic benefits that create a long and lasting legacy.

“And there will be much more to come as we continue to develop, build and operate wind farms in the southern North Sea and help deliver a clean energy future for us all alongside trusted partners like North Star.”

Andy Viles, Siemens Gamesa’s head of offshore operations for Northern Europe (Image: Siemens Gamesa)
Andy Viles, Siemens Gamesa’s head of offshore operations for Northern Europe, added: “East Anglia THREE will play a vital role in the UK achieving its net zero targets and energy security.

“At Siemens Gamesa we’re proud to be supplying 95 offshore wind turbines for this project and working with the local supply chain on its delivery.

“This includes our partnership with North Star’s Lowestoft team, ensuring we provide a high-performing and long-term offshore service logistics solution that’s supported by a local workforce.”

For more information on East Anglia THREE, visit spreastanglia.com