Innovation hub cuts ribbon on £6.3 million base

An innovation hub has officially opened a £6.3 million expansion.

The Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult has cut the ribbon on the Technology Development Centre, in Blyth, Northumberland.

Bosses say the venture will provide testing, validation and demonstration space for green energy companies.

They add it will “help the region stay at the forefront of the UK’s journey towards achieving clean power by 2030.”

Neighbouring ORE Catapult’s existing National Renewable Energy Centre, and created on land once used as a paper storage shed, the two-storey site includes a 1MW drivetrain test rig for rotating machine components, a mini electrical grid system and a laboratory.

Part of the Energy Central Campus development overseen by ORE Catapult, Port of Blyth and Northumberland County Council, the endeavour was delivered through funding from ORE Catapult, the North East Combined Authority, the Blyth Town Deal and Innovate UK.

Steve Foxley, ORE Catapult chief executive, said: “We’re excited to open this fantastic new testing facility, which will provide scalable and expansive development space for the latest innovators ready to power the offshore renewable energy industry.

“The North East is already driving innovation and growth within the UK’s offshore wind sector, and this facility will serve as a vital tool for companies to develop the latest technologies and solutions.”

Kim McGuinness, North East mayor, said: “We now have even more great green energy jobs in the North East as this brilliant new facility opens its doors.

“It’s yet more proof we’re a world leader in this industry.”

Councillor Glen Sanderson, Northumberland County Council leader, added: “This is another great day for Northumberland and the wider region.

“This new base is bringing new jobs and new opportunities to develop skills, and is another step in the renaissance of Blyth.”

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