A new offshore wind innovation call is inviting proposals for advancements in weather forecasting and improved service operation vessel (SOV) designs.
Up to £300,000 is available for successful applicants. This is the second in a series of innovation calls under the £1 million Offshore Wind Research and Innovation (R&I) Programme, run by the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) and sponsored by the West of Orkney Windfarm. The programme aims to support the supply chain in developing new solutions, enhancing operational capacity, and scaling up activities. Successful applicants may also receive assistance with project proposal development, alternative grant funding access, and use of EMEC’s test and demonstration sites.
Innovation call focus areas:
- Weather forecasting solutions to improve weather-sensitive decision-making during surveys, construction, and operations and maintenance.
- Service operation vessel (SOV) design to enhance turbine access, improve safety for personnel transfers, and maximise operational opportunities in challenging high-wind and rough-sea conditions.
Projects must demonstrate a clear and justifiable benefit to the West of Orkney Windfarm while also contributing to the wider offshore wind sector, supply chain, and Scottish and UK economies. Proposals must include an innovative element, as the programme will not fund services already available on the market.
A webinar will be held on Thursday 13 March 2025 at 12:00 noon to provide an overview of the programme, the innovation call, and available support. The application deadline is Wednesday 9 April 2025 at 1:00 pm.
