The construction of the £6bn Sofia Offshore Wind Farm in the North Sea could yield £181m of economic benefit for Yorkshire and Humber, the energy giant behind the scheme has claimed.
A report commissioned by German energy firm RWE, which is developing the 100-turbine project in the Dogger Bank zone, also points to around 1,600 full time job-years it is estimated to create in Yorkshire and Humber. RWE expanded its Grimsby operations and maintenance base to serve the site having been home to the Triton Knoll Wind Farm activities.
The new report from Wavehill Social and Economic Research highlights efforts to build skills relevant to the project through engagement with schools. It says it has so far reached more than 12,700 students from primary school to university level to promote STEM careers. Its Champions for Wind programme gives school teachers knowledge of the industry.
Last year the first cohort of offshore wind turbine apprentices joined a three-year programme at the Grimsby operations hub. The course combines practical training with desk-based study at RWE’s Renewables Academy at Coleg Llandrillo in North Wales. The practical training will continued throughout Sofia’s construction phase with the report’s authors also pointing out that RWE’s tier one suppliers have also recruited their own apprentices.
The study also promotes RWE’s community initiatives centred around the Sofia Construction Community Fund has supported 23 local charities and projects that address social isolation, poverty, and sustainability. Other initiatives range from coastal clean-ups and community centre renovations to mental health support programs.
Earlier this year RWE provided funding to Whitby Lobster Hatchery, enabling the release of 5,000 juvenile lobsters at the site of the firm’s Triton Knoll offshore wind farm. If this first tranche is successful, there is potential for a further 10,000 lobsters to be released over the next two years.
Tom Glover, UK country chair, RWE: “Offshore wind is not just about delivering clean power—it’s about creating a ripple effect of positive change. The Sofia Offshore Wind Farm project demonstrates how renewable energy can boost economic growth, support the supply chain, and bring lasting benefits to local communities. By investing in skills, infrastructure, and community initiatives, we are ensuring that offshore wind delivers for the UK both today and in the future.”
Original artice – https://business-live.co.uk/all-about/yorkshire-humber
