North East trio get wind in their sails

Three North East energy tech firms have secured funding and expert support to accelerate offshore wind innovation.

SeaThor, Pulcea and Kinewell will each take part in a nine-month programme backed by the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, sharing £600,000 to develop their cutting-edge solutions for the growing offshore wind sector.

The scheme, part of the Technology, Innovation and Green Growth for Offshore Renewables (TIGGOR) programme, supports pioneering work including SeaThor’s dynamic cable protection system, Pulcea’s noise-reducing bubble curtain for marine life, and Kinewell’s AI-led optimisation of floating wind infrastructure.

Each company will benefit from mentorship by major developers Equinor and EDF Renewables as they work to bring their technologies to market.

Magnus Willett, senior project manager in strategy and emerging technologies at ORE Catapult, said: “It’s fantastic to welcome these three companies to the TIGGOR programme and we look forward to supporting them as they develop products and services that could boost growth and productivity across the North East of England and increase UK content in the offshore renewable energy supply chain. 

“The programme focuses on key priorities of development for our offshore wind sector, and we are grateful to the North East Combined Authority, and industry heavyweights Equinor and EDF Renewables for making this vital opportunity possible.”

Shiu Hui, new technology and innovation manager at EDF Renewables UK and Ireland, added: “We are delighted to congratulate Kinewell, SeaThor, and Pulcea on being selected as the recipients of funding through the TIGGOR programme. 

“These forward-thinking businesses are paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable future in the offshore sector with cutting-edge AI technology, cost-saving solutions for floating wind projects, and innovative approaches to reducing noise in offshore construction. 

“The competition for this round was exceptional, and we commend all the businesses that applied.”

Funded by the North East Combined Authority, officials say TIGGOR is designed to strengthen the region’s renewable energy supply chain. 

Since its launch in 2020, the programme has supported 14 projects with £3.7 million in research and development funding, creating 33 new jobs and 22 apprenticeships and traineeships, which have helped bring 18 new products to market.

Councillor Karen Clark, elected mayor of North Tyneside and cabinet member for home to the Green Energy Revolution, added: “Supporting the TIGGOR programme is a great way to showcase the wealth of talent and ambition we have in the North East of England, and what this can bring to the rest of the UK and internationally. 

“This region is already internationally recognised as a hub for the offshore energy sector, and we want to build on this fantastic reputation by supporting businesses that can turbo boost our clean energy ambitions.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →