By Jens Nielsen, Director, Head of Procurement, A2SEA
We have now finalised two locally based mobilisations in the UK, representing a clear forward step in bringing projects and jobs to the region. So what has it been like to do this for the first time? And does it mean for the future?
By Andy Reay, A2SEA Regional Manager for the UK
The Humber may not be that long as rivers go (just 59 kilometres from one end to the other), but its lack of length isn’t about to stop it being one of the busiest spots in offshore wind energy next year. In fact, the area will be home to both operations & maintenance projects, as well as considerably more offshore construction, too.
Actually, the Humber isn’t a river at all. Situated on the east coast of northern England and flowing into the North Sea, it’s a tidal estuary formed where the River Trent and the River Ouse meet each other. In 2017, for the first time, A2SEA will be bringing two jack-up vessels to the area, kicking off two new projects that will see components being loaded out from Siemens’ new £160 million turbine blade manufacturing, project construction, assembly and service facility at Green Port Hull.
By Jens Nielsen, Director, Procurement, A2SEA A/S
For foreign-based companies, doing business in the UK offshore wind industry requires a convincing demonstration of commitment to using local skills and infrastructure. And it’s probably fair to say that, for many, hiring locally based workers and setting up supply contracts with the local business community is viewed as a necessary, but not strictly desirable, activity. In reality, they would rather do the job with as many of their own, tried-and-proven resources as possible.
By Jens Frederik Hansen,
CEO, A2SEA A/S
Local content legislation introduces requirements aimed at creating jobs, promoting enterprise development and accelerating the transfer of skills and technologies. It’s a strategic issue for the industry that presents both challenges and opportunities. Continue reading