UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has announced £85.6m of capital funding for the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult to expand and upgrade its testing facilities at the National Renewable Energy Centre in Blyth, Northumberland.
This investment aims to support the development of the next generation of wind turbines in the UK.
The new facilities will enable the testing of wind turbine blades up to 150 metres and drive trains up to 23MW, with the capacity for future expansion to 180m and 28MW.
These advanced testing assets will help turbine manufacturers accelerate technology development in the UK with reduced risk and enhanced reliability.
The facilities will facilitate faster product development through testing, validation and certification.
This is expected to prevent 2.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions by accelerating turbine deployment by at least eight months, contributing to more eco-friendly energy production.
Additionally, the investment will support the growth of UK supply chains and attract inward investment into the UK wind industry.
The project is also expected to create 30 new jobs in Blyth.
