Port buoyed by £10 million clean tech drive

A global offshore wind services company has unveiled a £10 million investment in new clean tech manufacturing.

Venterra Group has launched the UK’s first fully designed and built fleet of dual LiDAR buoys, strengthening the North East’s role in offshore innovation.

Developed by metocean expert Partrac and engineered by Osbit at its new 3350 sq metre facility at the Port of Blyth, the V-LiDAR fleet combines expertise from across Venterra’s group of companies. 

Sam Athey, managing director of Partrac, which was acquired by Venterra in 2022, said: “By integrating our insights and learnings from our deep experience, we have now launched the world’s most advanced LiDAR buoy, combining innovation, practicality and market understanding to offer real client value.”

The innovative buoys capture high-frequency wind data with exceptional accuracy and endurance, operating continuously for up to 20 months. 

Bosses say their deployment will help offshore wind developers assess sites more efficiently, improve project feasibility, and accelerate consenting processes.

Ed Daniels, chief executive of Venterra Group, said: “The launch of our fleet of advanced LiDAR buoys, designed and manufactured by our team in Blyth, is a direct and innovative response to our clients’ and broader market needs. 

“This advancement positions our capabilities at the forefront of metocean services and further underpins Venterra's vision as a world leading wind services champion.”

Robbie Blakeman, joint managing director of Osbit, which joined the Venterra Group in 2021, added: “Manufacturing the V-LiDAR fleet from our new Blyth facility is a proud achievement for the Osbit team and a clear demonstration of the North East’s capability in advanced offshore engineering, as well as reinforcing the value of Venterra’s integrated service offering.”

Located within the North East Investment Zone, Osbit’s Blyth facility forms part of a wider plan to generate £3 billion in private investment and create 4000 jobs in advanced manufacturing and clean energy. 

The development also supports the Government’s “Build it in Britain” agenda and Clean Energy Industries Sector Plan under the Modern Industrial Strategy.

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