Latest news with #AjaiAhluwalia
Rhyl Journal
10 hours ago
- Business
- Rhyl Journal
New plan could power Wales to top of offshore wind industry
The action plan, developed by a dedicated task group, aims to unlock long-term economic and environmental benefits by building on Wales' growing pipeline of more than 15GW of offshore wind projects in surrounding waters. The sector could deliver up to £4.8 billion for Welsh businesses and create more than 3,000 jobs. Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, said: "Last week, we welcomed the announcement that offshore wind in the Celtic Sea was moving from planning into development and delivery. "With two successful bidders announced to develop three gigawatts of clean energy, and a clear commitment from the Crown Estate to deliver the full 4.5GW, we see the start of billions of pounds of investment and thousands of jobs. "This truly is a once in a generation opportunity for our ports and will be a catalyst for economic regeneration in our coastal communities." The group recommendations include establishing a stakeholder forum by autumn 2025 to improve coordination between developers, government, and other key partners. Other proposals focus on streamlining planning and consent processes to speed up project delivery, supporting Welsh businesses to join the offshore wind supply chain, and addressing sector-specific skills gaps. Ajai Ahluwalia, head of supply chain at RenewableUK, said: "We are pleased to see clear, practical actions that respond directly to industry calls for greater certainty, stronger collaboration, and urgent delivery. "Offshore wind is one of the UK's greatest industrial opportunities — with the potential to transform Wales' heartland sectors, like steel and advanced manufacturing. "Over the next decade alone, £32 billion in economic value is at stake, including a £4.8 billion opportunity for Welsh businesses and 3,370 well-paid jobs. "To unlock that value, we must now move swiftly from planning to implementation — and industry stands ready to work with government to make it happen." The plan also emphasises the importance of skills development, calling for coordinated educational initiatives to prepare the workforce for emerging roles in wind turbine technology and high-voltage engineering. It highlights the need to integrate the Welsh steel and concrete industries into offshore wind supply chains, especially for floating wind foundations. Wales has led the way in offshore wind, hosting the UK's first fixed offshore wind projects in North Wales.
South Wales Argus
2 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Offshore wind plan to boost Welsh economy and jobs
Unveiled by the Welsh Government's Offshore Wind task and finish group, the strategy sets out steps to harness more than 15GW of offshore wind capacity. It follows the announcement of two successful floating wind projects totalling 3GW in the Celtic Sea, with a third site expected to bring the total to 4.5GW. Ajai Ahluwalia, head of supply chain at RenewableUK, said: "We are pleased to see clear, practical actions that respond directly to industry calls for greater certainty, stronger collaboration, and urgent delivery. "Offshore wind is one of the UK's greatest industrial opportunities — with the potential to transform Wales' heartland sectors, like steel and advanced manufacturing. "To unlock that value, we must now move swiftly from planning to implementation — and industry stands ready to work with government to make it happen." The plan includes long-term revenue support, planning reforms, port upgrades, and supply chain development. It also calls for streamlined regulatory processes and a dedicated Welsh Ports Prospectus to attract investment and promote infrastructure. The Welsh Government will establish an implementation team to ensure the plan is delivered.
