Celtic Sea Power (CSP) has secured vital funding from
The Crown Estate’s (TCE) £50 million Supply Chain Accelerator. The investment will accelerate and de-risk development of a new offshore coordination centre in a project led by CSP in partnership with
Treveth. It represents ‘no regret’ activity to develop a local capability ahead of an emerging market.
In due course, it could support the construction and operation of floating offshore wind (FLOW) in the Celtic Sea from Cornwall. Situated close to Newquay Airport, the new centre will provide a critical hub to oversee maritime, aviation and logistical activities — vital if FLOW is to be delivered.
Matt Hodson, COO at Celtic Sea Power, said: “We are delighted to receive this support for our hub concept and thrilled to see that four other Cornish companies also received support from TCE to develop their investment propositions. The Industry Delivery Plan (IDP) programme has had a direct effect in progressing this ‘credible ambition’ in our region with support through Cornwall’s Shared Prosperity Funding (SPF), proving both vital and effective.”
‘Net zero’ goalsWill Apps, offshore wind strategy director at The Crown Estate, said: “It is fantastic to announce the successful organisations receiving funding through our Supply Chain Accelerator. We have been encouraged by the level of interest the Accelerator has generated in the market and are delighted with the calibre and range of projects which we will be supporting. The purpose of the Accelerator is to help grow and nurture the UK’s domestic supply chain, a crucial factor if the UK is to realise the potential of offshore wind in delivering its ambitious clean power and ‘net zero’ goals, contributing to jobs and prosperity in communities across the UK.”
CSP’s Offshore Coordination Centre has received support from several FLOW developers who recognised the foresight of a strategically located hub with good infrastructure, connectivity and the potential for wider development in the future. The project also has key local support; Noah Law, MP for St Austell and Newquay, said: “It is great to see the Crown Estate recognising the potential of our local supply chains and supporting jobs in Cornwall when it comes to floating offshore wind.”
The Offshore Coordination Centre will play a key role in helping co-ordinate Celtic Sea FLOW operations in the coming years. As well as progressing the region’s existing capabilities it will help to build the capability and capacity of the UK FLOW supply chain, and thereby support the UK’s wider goal of bolstering energy security and expanding renewable energy generation.