Local MP blown away by world-class offshore wind testing facilities

Luke Pollard MP visits the University
Luke Pollard MP visits the University of Plymouth
Luke Pollard MP has called for urgent investment and support for the South West in realising the opportunities presented by developing floating offshore wind energy, following a visit to the University of Plymouth.
The Plymouth Sutton and Devonport MP visited the University's state-of-the-art floating offshore wind turbine test facilities to see first-hand how graduates are being trained to design, develop, operate and regulate offshore wind.
Independent research commissioned by the Crown Estate found that new floating wind farms off the coast of South West England could create more than 5,000 new jobs and boost the economy by up to £1.4 billion.

The UK has the potential to be a world leader in floating offshore wind and I was proud to see first-hand the pivotal research the University of Plymouth is playing in realising this goal.

Floating offshore wind will bring benefits nationwide, but also to the South West where a large number of servicing, construction and research jobs could be created if we get this right.
The University of Plymouth is already the recognised research hub for floating offshore wind so let’s motor ahead and realise the huge opportunities for more green jobs in the South West." 
Luke Pollard MP
Member of Parliament for Plymouth Sutton and Devonport
During his visit, the MP met the University's Vice Chancellor, Professor Judith Petts CBE, and academics, including Dr Antony Robotham and Professor Deborah Greaves OBE FREng, Professor in Ocean Engineering.
Professor Greaves submitted a paper to the Celtic Sea All-Party Parliamentary Group recently, arguing that the South West is at risk of missing out on investment and economic growth in the offshore renewable sector.

Developing Floating Offshore Wind energy on our doorstep off the coast of South West England is a unique opportunity that could sail away from our region unless it is anchored by a dedicated Celtic Sea Strategy.

The potential economic and environmental benefits to Plymouth and surrounding area, the Celtic Sea wider region, and our nation are enormous, but there is a risk we could lose investment to other areas or overseas without clear support from Government. Already, we have seen Falmouth miss out on recent funding for key infrastructure.
We are grateful for the support of our local MP, here and in Westminster."

Deborah Greaves OBE FREngDeborah Greaves OBE FREng
Professor in Ocean Engineering

Abstract image of a hand holding planet earth with symbols around it. 

Centre for Decarbonisation and Offshore Renewable Energy
COAST Lab - 2013914

Coastal, Ocean and Sediment Transport (COAST) laboratory
Offshore renewable energy

Supergen Offshore Renewable Energy Hub
Celtic Sea floating offshore wind