A new initiative is under way to encourage businesses to make even greater use of the OrbisEnergy centre in Lowestoft.
After marking the fifth anniversary of the five-storey landmark centre, there is a drive to attract a more diverse range of clients to sample its conference and event facilities.
The centre is widely recognised as the region’s flagship facility for offshore renewable energy and home to companies such as SSE Renewables, East Anglia Offshore Wind, 4C Offshore, Scour Prevention Systems, Fred. Olsen Windcarrier and many others.
As the most easterly building in the Britain, OrbisEnergy is now opening up the facilities to attract business, community groups and anyone else who wants to host an event or meeting at the prestigious location.
“It’s an inspirational venue with unrivalled sea views which create a tremendous atmosphere,” said Johnathan Reynolds, development lead at OrbisEnergy .
Last month Prime Minister David Cameron met local business people at the centre, a gathering hosted by Waveney MP Peter Aldous. And there was another major boost when it was chosen for the Galloper Wind Farm Project’s announcement of bringing new investment to Lowestoft.
Bart Oberink, Galloper Wind Farm Project director, said: “We were delighted to hold our briefing at OrbisEnergy, just minutes away from what will be the heart of our operations and maintenance base.
“OrbisEnergy is the centre for offshore renewables in Lowestoft and with its main purpose being to help local businesses join the energy supply chain, it was a natural choice of venue.
The breakfast briefing was about providing an update on Galloper Wind Farm and explaining how businesses can really get involved. The event was a sell-out with over 200 delegates representing local businesses attending.”
Mr Reynolds said that although the centre was a flagship for offshore renewables, the fourth-floor conference suite was available to all business sectors whether for meetings, receptions, training sessions, exhibitions or other functions. The centre is available to hire at any time, including evenings and weekends.
“Every event is a boost for the Lowestoft economy as well as for OrbisEnergy itself and can bring new business to the town. The more it is used, the more it keeps Lowestoft in the limelight and at the hub of commercial life,” he said.
Owned by Suffolk County Council and managed by NWES, the conference suite, with balconies overlooking the North Sea, can host up to 220 people. There is an adjoining catering area and a range of break-out rooms.
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Press release, February 11, 2014; Image: OrbisEnergy