The principle behind “clustering” is a simple one, when individuals or organisations are brought closer together; either in terms of physical geography or communication, business is accelerated. As such, integrated wind energy supply chain SuperCluster in the UK, has the potential to form the cornerstone of significant export hub for Europe and beyond.
Already, Siemens and Associated British Ports (ABP) have announced a Memorandum of Understanding in connection with ABP's proposed Green Port Hull development at Alexandra Dock, Port of Hull, the UK’s first potential offshore wind SuperCluster.
A SuperCluster, as illustrated below, is defined as “a geographic region based around a relevant and credible Port location, which incorporates most if not all of the offshore wind energy value chain including:
- Supply chain manufacture & assembly of products.
- Provision of services which support the sector (including the wider low carbon energy sector);
- Academic links to support the research, development and deployment of tomorrow’s turbines, foundations and interconnection technologies.
- Training and skills provision needed to deliver the growth in human capital which underpins every part of the sector value chain.”
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