The construction of the London Array offshore wind farm has not brought much profit to British businesses, as about 90% of the GBP 1.5 billion spent in it went to foreign companies.
The Guardian cites Chris Randle, the project manager from Siemens , as saying: “I would like nothing better than to be hiring local firms or people if only because it makes for a more competitive tender and helps me drive down costs.”
“But in the past there was not that skilled supply chain. It takes time to build that up in this new industry but I am glad to say it is getting better and this can be seen on the newer projects.”
Nevertheless, it is said that the UK’s 10% involves more than half of the 520 people working on the project at the height of the construction season this summer.
[mappress]
Offshore WIND staff, October 3, 2012; Image: London Array