A Norwich firm has struck a partnership with a Chinese wind turbine manufacturer that will help expand the UK’s offshore wind sector.

Opergy Group, which advises on renewable and low-carbon energy solutions, announced its strategic partnership with Mingyang Smart Energy Group, one of China’s largest manufacturers of wind turbines, on the first day of the Global Offshore Wind conference and exhibition in London.

“We are thrilled to partner with Mingyang to support their entry into the UK market,” said Johnathan Reynolds, Opergy Group’s managing director. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to accelerate the UK’s transition to cleaner energy and deliver on our net zero goals.

“Mingyang is one the world’s largest offshore wind turbine manufacturers, and to deliver the UK’s rapidly expanding pipeline, we firmly believe that they will play a key part in our ability to achieve the current goal of 50GW by 2030.”

The partnership aims to accelerate the development of UK offshore wind projects, as well as supporting the development of onshore wind, hydrogen and solar initiatives across the UK.

Li Bian, Mingyang Smart Energy Group’s general manager for the UK, said: “As the UK continues to expand its commitment to clean and sustainable energy sources, offshore wind is fast becoming the backbone of future energy provision.

“The partnership between Opergy and Mingyang Smart Energy Group brings together our complementary strengths, market knowledge and expertise, and innovative engineering solutions with our portfolio of offshore wind turbines including the latest flagship 18MW model.”

Ma Jing, international CEO at Mingyang, added: “The UK is a pivotal market for the expansion of our clean energy portfolio, and we are delighted to join forces with Opergy.

“With their track record, we are confident in our shared ability to deliver cutting-edge offshore wind projects, as well as drive advancements in onshore wind, hydrogen, and solar energy solutions.

“This partnership signifies a significant step forward in our commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.”

Speaking at the signing, Chris Hay, head of renewable energy trade investment in China for the Department of Business and Trade UK said: “It's really exciting to see Opergy and Mingyang signing an MOU [memorandum of understanding] today on cooperation in the UK.

“The UK has really ambitious plans for offshore wind. If we want to reach 50 gigawatts by 2030, we really need overseas investment to help us achieve that as well as manufacturers to come into the UK.

“Of course, Mingyang is one of the biggest turbine manufacturers in the world, so we are particularly keen to support their UK presence.”