Singapore mooring solutions group Mooreast has signed a collaboration agreement to establish a manufacturing facility in Aberdeen for the production of subsea foundations, as well as the assembly of mooring components for the floating offshore energy sector.
It will work with Energy Transition Zone (ETZ) by supporting the creation of a hub to protect the Scottish renewable sector while facilitating job creation.
Signed in Singapore together with ETZ offshore renewables director Andy Rodden, and witnessed by Minister for Business, Trade, Tourism and Enterprise Ivan McKee, the facility is projected to be more than double the floor space and output of the group’s Singapore facility.
The aim is to support Mooreast’s efforts to target an increasing number of offshore wind projects emerging in Europe, including those brought forward by the ScotWind auction, alongside the Celtic Sea Cluster and the Innovation and Targeted Oil and Gas project, which are expected to deliver over 20GW, 5GW and 4.5GW of floating wind energy, respectively.
As part of this strategy, the group incorporated Mooreast UK in July 2022.
This company, alongside ETZ, will now work on developing a preferred site plan that is compatible with local planning regulations and development requirements, as well as delivering a jobs and skills plan to secure a workforce ready to support operation of the facility.
ETZ has also committed to facilitating introductions to key local supply chain companies required to support the start-up and future operation of the site.
Sim Koon Lam, chief executive of Mooreast, said: “Upon completion, the facility will serve as a cornerstone of Mooreast’s expansion into Europe, and will enable us to produce high-quality products and services for our renewable energy customers in the region.”
McKee said: “As the world’s largest floating offshore wind leasing round, ScotWind puts us at the forefront of the global development of offshore wind and represents a massive step forward in our transition to net zero.
“As set out in our National Strategy for Economic Transformation and our Inward Investment Plan, it is critically important that we work closely with inward investors by offering our unique ‘Team Scotland’ approach to support their growth and expansion into Scotland, enabling us to deliver inclusive economic prosperity.”
Rodden added: “Mooreast’s intention to explore establishing significant operations in Aberdeen is warmly welcomed and a testament to the critical mass this region has in the skills and expertise required to support such an exciting development.
“We are at the very early stages of this particular process, but this potential development reflects the type of investment that will help us realise this ambition.”
Mooreast has appointed Barry Silver as managing director of Mooreast UK.
He brings more than 24 years of business, technical and operational experience in offshore energy markets, and will be responsible for establishing and managing the group’s facility, as well as business development to support Mooreast’s international growth.
Don't miss the latest headlines with our twice-daily newsletter - sign up here for free.
