£1m secured by Launch Academy companies to boost the offshore wind industry

The companies are part of the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult’s Launch Academy programme and have created new jobs and won new contracts thanks to the initiative, backed by bp, ScottishPower Renewables and Scottish Enterprise.

The latest Launch Academy cohort have each developed a solution for issues within the offshore wind industry, including providing 5G at sea, or replacing diesel engines in marine vessels with renewable hydrogen steam power. Launch Academy’s nine-month programme helps them develop their technology and commercialise solutions.

The companies shared their progress at ORE Catapult’s National Renewable Energy Centre in Blyth to mark the midway point of their Launch Academy journey, where they also had networking opportunities with bp, Scottish Power Renewables and Scottish Enterprise.

Alex Louden, senior technology acceleration manager at ORE Catapult, said: “Each of the ten companies have enjoyed fantastic successes since we started the latest round of Launch Academy in March 2022.

“It has been great to hear more about their impressive achievements and celebrate with them in person at our midterm event. We cannot wait to see how the grants, new hires and collaborations further enhance this selection of future businesses who will no doubt play a leading part in our renewable future.”

Since joining Launch Academy, Jet Engineering System Solutions, has secured over £500,000 in grant funding from both UK Research and Innovation and commercial contracts. They have also successfully launched a floating 5G base station and hired seven new staff members.

James Thomas, CEO at JET Engineering, said: “It is a great experience to be part of Launch Academy and benefit from the skills and expertise that ORE Catapult provides.

“The opportunity to be immersed in the offshore wind world has supported our focus on the value we can bring to the market, and we are fortunate to be doing that alongside big industry players as well as others early on in their journey thanks to the Launch Academy team.”