The UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has announced an investment of £300 million ($400 million) to strengthen domestic offshore wind supply chains. This funding is part of a broader initiative that complements £43 billion ($57 billion) in private investments in clean energy projects since July. The goal is to reduce investment risks, support supply chain development, and create local jobs.

The investment, managed through Great British Energy, will focus on manufacturing offshore wind components such as floating platforms and cables. This is part of the UK’s updated Industrial Strategy, aimed at enhancing resilience in clean energy sectors to improve energy security.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the importance of securing future clean energy jobs, stating, “Delivering the Plan for Change means winning the race for the clean energy jobs of the future, which will drive growth and help us reach clean power by 2030.” He also highlighted the initiative’s role in boosting the UK’s workforce in sectors like welding, electrical work, and engineering.

Jane Cooper, Deputy CEO of RenewableUK, believes the investment will strengthen the UK's competitive position globally, attracting further co-investment from industry players. She noted that the funding could triple the UK’s offshore wind manufacturing capacity over the next decade, contributing an additional £25 billion to the economy and creating 10,000 new jobs.

Richard Sandford, chair of the Offshore Wind Industry Council, expressed support for the government’s commitment, noting that the funding would help the UK secure a leading position in the global offshore wind market. The focus on advanced turbine technology, foundations, substructures, cables, and maintenance services is expected to generate thousands of new jobs.

In addition to the offshore wind investment, the UK has hosted the Future of Energy Security summit, organized with the International Energy Agency. The event addressed emerging risks to energy security, such as supply chain disruptions and extreme weather, and emphasized the need for international cooperation to tackle shared challenges.

The UK government also reached financial close on the Liverpool Bay CCS project with Eni, marking a step forward in the development of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology. This partnership will unlock additional investments in local supply chain contracts and further solidify the UK’s position as a leader in the CCS sector.

These initiatives reflect the UK’s strategic focus on advancing clean energy technology and securing energy security through strong domestic and international partnerships.