Global Offshore Wind conference left in no doubt as to Wales'
expertise and ambition.
Speaking at the Global Offshore Wind conference in Manchester
today, the Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Energy, and Welsh
Language shared his ambitious vision for Wales in the offshore
wind revolution.
With the right mix of expertise and geography, Wales has long
been a home to internationally pioneering offshore wind projects.
As part of a keynote speech to an international industry
audience, Cabinet Secretary, , vowed to build on this,
putting a strong focus on strategic investment, robust supply
chains, and developing skills to ensure that Wales is excellently
placed to lead the charge towards a green energy future.
This work will commence by developing and enhancing offshore
capability at the strategically placed ports of Holyhead, Mostyn,
Pembrokeshire, and Port Talbot, which have each had a pivotal
role to play in Wales's offshore wind successes to date.
, said: “Wales was at the
forefront of one industrial revolution, and now we have the
tools, the expertise, and the ambition to be at the forefront of
the next.
“Offshore wind is not just an energy solution; our ports are
gateways to economic growth and environmental sustainability. I'm
proud of the part Wales has played in leading on offshore wind
energy production so far, and I'm committed to maximise the
benefits to Wales by driving high-value investment in
manufacturing, infrastructure, and skills as we look to develop
and support further projects at key sites.
"As a government, work will soon begin with our ports to develop
a clear offshore strategy, ensuring the industry has the
certainty it needs, and businesses in the supply chain can be
best positioned to meet demand. We want to move quickly with
this, working with the industry, experts and local communities to
get the very best from an industry with huge potential, not just
for Wales but globally.”
The Welsh Government's Net Zero Skills Plan is crucial to
achieving a net-zero Wales. added: "Skills are critical
to improving productivity and delivering on the economic
opportunities from our transition to a net-zero Wales. I want to
ensure there's an emphasis from Government to work with the
industry, trade unions, and education organisations to enhance
our skills offer, and develop bespoke educational and training
initiatives tailored to an offshore wind industry we know
provides so many truly prosperous and sustainable opportunities.”
