Jul 6 2010
The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) of the U.K. has announced grants for the development of next-generation offshore wind technology. This announcement for the grants totaling an amount of £10 million was made by Chris Huhne, the Secretary of State, at the introduction of the Energy Technology Perspective report of the International Energy Agency.
Of the £10-million grant, £5 million was given to seven U.K. companies including JDR Cable Systems Ltd, South Boats Special Projects Ltd, Blade Dynamics, Converteam and MTL Group.
By using these funds: Converteam is likely to develop a DC conversion technology; NGentec will develop and showcase new innovative generator with 6 MW capacity; Blade Dynamics will develop and showcase modular blade assembly usage; and MTL Group will develop mass production processes for monopile and jacket sub-assemblies.
Chris commented that these funds will help businesses witness the advantages of renewable energy and in turn assist reduce costs to consumers.
A £5-million grant was awarded to Siemens Windpower, which will utilize the funds for the development of an offshore wind turbine with 6 MW capacity.