Renewables Network boosts Humber region

RWE npower renewables, which is responsible for the Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm project, has demonstrated a wish to meet suppliers across the Humber and Lincolnshire areas through its decision to join the Renewables Network.

As well as Triton Knoll, which is 20 miles off the coast of Mablethorpe and could have up to 333 turbines, RWE npower renewables is investing in three onshore wind farms in the region, at Langham, near Anderby, and Wainfleet, both in Lincolnshire, and Saxby Wold, North Lincolnshire.

Each project would generate energy using renewable sources, reduce carbon emissions and provide economic benefits for their local communities, including job creation.

The Renewables Network is a business to business networking organisation that helps members enter the renewable energy market. It has almost 200 member organisations, drawn from a wide variety of sectors, and aims to help businesses make the most of the expanding green energy market.

Jacob Hain, Triton Knoll development manager at RWE npower renewables said, “Joining the Renewables Network shows our commitment in getting involved in the communities in which we work. Our previous experience when constructing other offshore wind farms has shown that local businesses are often best placed to secure contracts. If the Triton Knoll Offshore Wind Farm receives planning permission, the wind farm will have a positive effect on employment and economic activity in the local area during its construction and operation.”

RWE npower renewables is undertaking a study to understand the likely number of jobs that could be created as a result of Triton Knoll, which could be operational from 2018 if approval is given. The company has already placed site survey contracts worth in excess of £1 million with local vessel owners, including in the Grimsby area.

Triton Knoll offshore wind farm could generate up to 1,200 MW of electricity when operational, meaning the development’s average annual energy production would be equivalent to the approximate domestic needs of 850,000 UK households. RWE npower renewables Saxby Wold onshore wind farm would have up to 18 turbines and generate enough electricity to power up to 21,800 homes.

Through the wind farm’s operation, about £180,000 a year could be invested by the company in the community and wider region, with the development bringing a wide range of economic benefits to the area. During construction, this could see up to 70 people employed at the site.