US-based offshore wind delegation visits Energy Central in Blyth

It provided a unique opportunity for the two organisations to continue their working partnership and share best practice.

The Connecticut delegation included Mayor Passero of New London and board members of the Connecticut Wind Collaborative. The Collaborative are a pivotal component of Connecticut’s Offshore Wind Strategic Roadmap.

The Connecticut delegation represented The State Pier Terminal in the Port of New London, on the USA’s east coast.

The delegation was hosted by Energy Central Partnership and included a visit to world leading Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, a tour of the Port of Blyth, a visit to the brand new Energy Central Learning Hub and networking within the cluster.

Energy Central, brings together a partnership of Advance Northumberland, The Port of Blyth, Northumberland County Council and Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult.

Energy Central is the UK’s cluster for energy, offshore wind and subsea. Hosting The Connecticut Wind Collaborative provided the ideal opportunity to further develop this relationship and build on the strengths of both parties.

Alasdair Kerr, commercial director, Port of Blyth, said: “We were delighted to welcome delegates from the Connecticut Offshore Wind Collaborative to Port of Blyth.

"As a leading offshore energy base, we are proud to showcase our facilities together with our mature supply chain of over 50 companies based around the Blyth estuary. We look forward to continuing conversations with the team and are committed to fostering growth within the offshore wind industry.”

Cllr Richard Wearmouth, cabinet member for Supporting Business and Opportunities at Northumberland County Council, added: "This is another example of how this corner of Northumberland has a growing worldwide reputation in this sector, attracting international interest.

"It was an honour to welcome our colleagues from America and we had some very productive discussions on close future working."

The delegation closed the day with the opportunity to meet and network with businesses from the Northumberland Offshore Wind and Renewable Energy Sector, a fitting end to a successful day building international relationships for future opportunities.