The DECC Announces Grants for the Offshore Wind Technology of the U.K.

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.