North Sea partnership set to harness opportunities

An offshore wind organisation has joined forces with a Norwegian industry group to strengthen supply chains, boost investment and support future sector growth.

Humber Marine & Renewables (HM&R) and Norwegian Offshore Wind (NOW) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on offshore wind development and supply chain opportunities.

The agreement was formalised at the Global Offshore Wind conference and is designed to encourage closer links between the two regions as they continue to expand their renewable energy capabilities.

Officials say the partnership will create a framework for joint activities, including trade delegations, industry events, supply chain development initiatives and knowledge-sharing programmes in both the Humber and Norway.

They add the collaboration will help create new business opportunities, support job creation and encourage further investment in offshore wind, while strengthening ties between two regions.

Camilla Carlbom Flinn, vice chair of Humber Marine and Renewables, said: “The Humber has taken a world-leading role in offshore wind over the past two decades, and now we’re delighted to see many of our members exporting their knowledge, services and skills.   

“Norway has been a friend through fishing and seafood supply, and now we’re harnessing the power from our expansive coastlines too. 

“Humber Marine and Renewables is proud to officially partner with Norwegian Offshore Wind. 

“We aren’t just connecting two regions; we are bridging the North Sea in the true spirit of innovation and shared delivery. 

“Together, our respective members will unlock new opportunities, drive technological advancements, and accelerate the growth of the offshore wind industry.”  

NOW represents around 300 member organisations across the offshore wind value chain, while its UK working group includes more than 80 companies.

HM&R, which was formed in 2022 through the merger of Team Humber Marine Renewables and Grimsby Renewables Partnership, represents more than 80 businesses across the Humber region.

Tor Arne Johnsen, business development manager at NOW, added: “The Humber combines gigawatt-scale operational capacity, a multi-GW project pipeline, and strong offshore wind supply chains. 

“With Humber Marine and Renewables, we have ideal partner for creating opportunities for our members and building partnership across the North Sea. 

“This MoU cements a stronger cooperation and a platform for further cooperation in the years to come.” 

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