OWNE set for anniversary event

A North East-based renewable energy network is set to mark ten years of growth and collaboration.

Offshore Wind North East (OWNE) will host its tenth anniversary event on November 5-6 at Sunderland’s Beacon of Light. 

The two-day event brings together developers, contractors, suppliers, ports, research organisations and education providers, showcasing the region’s thriving offshore wind sector.

More than 100 exhibitors will take part alongside over 50 speakers, covering themes from infrastructure and manufacturing to talent development, emerging projects and offshore wind efficiency. 

Major North Sea developers including Dogger Bank, Sofia and Inch Cape will be represented, alongside local businesses such as Kinewell, Eastgate Engineering, Enshore Subsea and Harlyn Solutions.

The event is delivered by NOF, which supports over 400 members across offshore wind, hydrogen, carbon capture, oil and gas and nuclear. 

Energi Coast, the region’s offshore wind cluster, also backs the initiative. 

Joanne Leng MBE, chief executive of NOF, said: “We look forward to welcoming the offshore wind community to Sunderland as we celebrate ten years of Offshore Wind North East in November. 

“At The Beacon of Light, we’ll be creating a vibrant environment where challenges and new approaches will be discussed, capabilities showcased and innovations put in the spotlight.”

The North East has played a pivotal role in the offshore wind sector since its earliest days. 

Home to the UK’s first offshore wind farm, built in 2000 off the coast of Blyth, in Northumberland, the site also became the first in the country to be successfully decommissioned. 

Boasting extensive infrastructure and specialist expertise, the region has developed into a key hub for offshore wind activity.

Six highly active ports support the sector, alongside substantial research facilities, including the Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult in Blyth. 

A mature local supply chain offers a full range of services, covering design, construction, installation, operations and maintenance. 

Expertise spans foundations, cabling, installation, ports and logistics, as well as specialist subsea work and training.

This comprehensive ecosystem will be on show at OWNE 2025, with regional businesses demonstrating their capabilities and connecting with global developers and contractors, reinforcing region’s reputation as a centre of excellence in offshore wind.

Joanne added: “In the decade since its inception, OWNE has grown to be a cornerstone event in the renewable energy sector, one that attracts visitors from across the UK and overseas, as well its home region of North East England. 

“We’re very proud of what OWNE has achieved over the last decade and we’re thrilled to be flying the flag for the offshore wind sector – and North East England’s cluster – once again this year.”

For more information on exhibiting or attending Offshore Wind North East, see here.

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