Energy leaders gathered in Lowestoft on Tuesday, November 12 to discuss the impact of the latest Contracts for Difference allocation round (AR6), in which three local offshore wind farms received government backing. 

Hosted by EastWind, the eastern region’s offshore wind cluster, the AR6 Conference and Networking Lunch focused on opportunities for the local supply chain following September's allocation round. 

The event was held at OrbisEnergy, a renewable energy hub on Lowestoft waterfront, which is home to many of the supply chain businesses that stand to benefit from AR6. 

Jess Asato, MP for Lowestoft, delivered a keynote speech about the Labour government’s commitment to developing offshore wind and the UK’s wider renewable energy targets, as well as detailing the positive impacts the industry is having locally.

“It’s really important to stop and celebrate,” said Ms Asato. "The fact is we have this booming green and renewable energy sector already in Lowestoft, but also how do we plan for what’s coming down the track and make sure that we are going to make the most of it for local businesses and the supply chain here.

“Getting together, building those relationships, hearing about what each other are doing is key to making sure we get those opportunities for the future.”

Attendees also heard analysis of AR6 from Johnathan Reynolds of Opergy; Duncan Ayling from The Crown Estate; Emma Toulson, Ørsted; Mike Somerville, ScottishPower Renewables; Andrew Harston, ABP; Jenna Perry, Stowen; and Luke Clark of RenewableUK.

The event looked at the impact of the latest Contracts for Difference allocation roundThe event looked at the impact of the latest Contracts for Difference allocation round (Image: Edward Proctor/EastWind) Johnathan Reynolds’ analysis of the AR6 results included how the region is already feeling the positive impact of these projects and how the new permitted reduction mechanism is providing increased stability for investors.

“It's a really exciting time for offshore wind in the UK, particularly in the East of England,” said Mr Reynolds. 

“We have often been talked about as being one of the windiest places in the country, and the opportunities that creates for offshore wind projects is incredible.”

Duncan Ayling detailed the Crown Estate’s net zero route map and £50 million supply chain accelerator fund, which aims to catalyse supply chain capacity and capability for offshore wind.

Both Ørsted’s Hornsea Three and ScottishPower Renewables’ East Anglia TWO and THREE were awarded over a gigawatt of capacity in AR6, providing a significant boost to the region’s offshore wind capability.

All three projects are due to come online between 2027 and 2029.

Emma Toulson provided an update on Hornsea Three and Four, while Mike Somerville delivered the latest news about the East Anglia Hub, including ScottishPower Renewables' £1 billion contract with Siemens Gamesa for the supply of turbines, which had been announced earlier in the day by Prime Minister Kier Starmer at COP29 in Azerbaijan.

The contract includes the manufacturing of the blades at Siemens Gamesa’s factory in Hull, signalling significant investment in the UK supply chain.

Lexi Brackpool, EastWind project manager, said: “The EastWind vision is being realised, with major developers, members of parliament and representatives of the supply chain engaging with the cluster.

“We are also seeing our working groups that cover core industry issues; innovation, skills and supply chain engagement, starting to deliver on their working objectives set out in June this year.

“Collaboration is key to the success of our industry and we hope to continue to provide opportunities for it to thrive.”

If you’re interested in being a member of EastWind, get in touch via the website at ewoc.co.uk or email hello@ewoc.co.uk