NEIA releases study on offshore wind energy supply chain

“There are many similarities between the needs of an offshore oil and gas industry, and those of an offshore wind energy industry,” said Kieran Hanley, NEIA’s Executive Director. “This was apparent to us last September, while leading a trade mission to Hamburg and the largest wind energy exhibition in the world.” Hanley said the exhibition featured firms providing many of the same products and services found in Newfoundland and Labrador. “Though the similarities were obvious, we wanted to begin to quantify that by engaging in a study.”

The study was preceded by a ‘Request for Information’ from NEIA for firms in the province to self-identify their relative capabilities in offshore wind energy. Emerging from this process, complemented by research, were strengths in areas of direct importance to offshore wind energy development, such as: geotechnical services; health and safety; research and education; environmental engineering and consulting; ocean technologies; monitoring and modelling; legal expertise; etc.

The report summarizes that Newfoundland and Labrador’s 30-year history operating in offshore environments provides a solid foundation for support of any future offshore wind energy industry.

“As the cost of renewable energy development continues to decrease, and the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions continues to increase, we believe that new offshore wind energy projects on this side of the Atlantic Ocean are likely,” said Hanley. “With the expertise we have developed through our offshore oil and gas industry, we are well-positioned to participate in those developments – if we are adequately prepared.”

“The possibility represents an opportunity for our firms to diversify their activities, and some proactive investigation is prudent,” said Hanley. “How Newfoundland and Labrador can participate in offshore wind energy development, whether it be off our own coastline or elsewhere in the region, merits further study and is deserving of an open discussion with stakeholders.”

The study can be downloaded at www.neia.org/offshorewind. Hanley says NEIA will continue working on behalf of its members to quantify opportunities and challenges. Any firms interested in joining NEIA’s Working Group to engage in discussions on offshore wind energy are encouraged to contact NEIA.

NEIA is a not-for-profit association of businesses that promotes the development of clean technology and the growth of the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador. NEIA has over 200 members. More information can be found at http://www.neia.org.