Partnership will 'tackle offshore wind challenges'

An energy sector innovation body has struck an academic alliance it says will drive forward the green transition.

The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult has signed a memorandum of understanding with Durham University.

Officials say the partnership will tackle “some of the offshore wind industry’s toughest challenges”.

The agreement formalises a relationship that traces back more than a decade, and will see the organisations collaborate across areas including research and innovation, skills development and business engagement.

Bosses say it will also help inform future learning at the Port of Blyth-based Energy Central Campus, which has been founded to nurture the renewables workers of tomorrow.

Tony Quinn, ORE Catapult director of technology development, said: “The emergence of three strategic initiatives in the North East make the strengthening of this relationship particularly timely and exciting.

“The recent creation of the North East Combined Authority – and its prioritisation of offshore wind as a key opportunity – the Energy Central Campus and Durham University’s science transformation project all ensure there couldn’t be a better time for us to align our focuses.”

Dr Shaid Mahmood, Durham University pro vice-chancellor (equality, diversity and inclusion), added: “After many years of successful joint working, it is wonderful to formalise the collaboration.

“Durham University is a leading centre for energy research, and our collaboration is the natural next step for two organisations dedicated to furthering the development of offshore renewable energy sources to aid energy transition.”

The agreement was signed during a ceremony at ORE Catapult’s Blyth-based National Renewable Energy Centre.

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