East of England representatives have returned from the offshore wind industry exhibition in Frankfurt with increased optimism about the region’s major role in the global windpower revolution.
EWEA’s event attended around 500 exhibitors among which was a team from the Norfolk and Suffolk Energy Alliance (NSEA), promoting the EEEZ (the East of England Energy Zone).
“Our location meant we had a very encouraging number of callers while we also had pre-arranged meetings with companies who have visited the region and with whom we have regular contact,” said James Gray, inward investment director for NSEA.
“Our efforts also had a great boost when we heard of Dudgeon Offshore Wind’s decision to use Great Yarmouth as its operations and maintenance base for the planned windfarm off North Norfolk.
“While the industry needs the Government to agree a price it will pay for electricity generated by planned windfarms off Norfolk and Suffolk, the overall impression was optimistic with the UK market seen as the one with greatest potential worldwide.”
Mr Gray was delighted that NSEA member and North Norfolk District Council leader Tom Fitzpatrick had joined the team at the event and reinforced the message of broad community support from the region for the offshore energy industry.
Press release, November 26, 2013; Image: tms