Scottish Enterprise has launched a £15 million innovation fund in order to promote the development of foundations technologies for offshore wind turbines. The aim is to encourage development of foundations that contribute to cost reductions in offshore wind deployment in Scotland and which are suitable for deployment in either 2015 or 2016, however the key principles of the fund are also based on the extent to which projects can demonstrate an economic impact in Scotland measured by gross value added (GVA) and job creation as a result of Scottish manufacturing operations.
Offers made under the fund will also seek a commitment from manufacturers to base operations in Scotland following prototype development. Companies who manufacture components are not eligible to apply as the fund is specifically targeted at offshore wind foundations projects. Collaborations are, however, eligible but there must be a substantial level of research and development activity in the development of prototypes among applicants.
Feedback from the offshore wind industry has indicated that there is a need for innovative solutions to foundation structures for deeper water and varied seabed conditions of Scottish territorial waters sites. The fund will help companies to manufacture foundation prototypes in Scotland and to utilise the Scottish supply chain thereby maximising the potential for the creation and retention of jobs in Scotland. The submissions will be reviewed by an expert panel consisting of representatives from Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the Scottish Government.
Scottish Enterprise are anticipating two rounds of applications in April to May 2013 and Spring 2014. Interested parties have been invited to submit an expression of interest along with audited and management accounts by 12.00 noon on Friday 24th May 2013.
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